Swimming for Posidonia: AEF Supports the Posidonia Challenge

This October, the Posidonia Challenge, an ambitious 200 km non-stop swim relay, set out to connect the Posidonia seagrass meadows and coastal communities of the Argosaronic Gulf. Organised by Rewilding Greece, and co-sponsored by the AEF, this initiative aimed to raise awareness about the critical importance of Posidonia meadows.

Four accomplished Greek swimmers – Kelly Araouzou, Christos Garefis, Charalambos Taigianidis, and Grigoris Timologos – took on the challenge of swimming a 200km non-stop relay. Beginning on Spetses their efforts were quickly thwarted by the weather and after 24 hours they had to turn back, but as they say, this was a first attempt. The challenge marks an important first step in a broader effort to mobilise local communities and protect these vital marine habitats.

Beyond the swim, the initiative fostered meaningful dialogue. The athletes met with local environmental groups and municipal representatives from Spetses and Poros, discussing ways to strengthen conservation efforts. They also engaged with researchers from the Oxford University, who were conducting fieldwork at Poros at the time – diving and collecting data to assess the potential impacts of fish farming on Posidonia meadows, a growing concern for the region.

Often called the “lungs of the Mediterranean,” Posidonia meadows are among the most effective carbon sinks, yet once lost, they take centuries to recover. Protecting them is urgent.

At the AEF, we are proud to support initiatives that not only raise awareness but also activate communities to safeguard their natural heritage. The Posidonia Challenge is just the beginning: a call to action for all of us to protect what cannot be replaced.