With almost 200,000 pleasure boats taking to the Mediterranean each summer, a new campaign is encouraging those enjoying the sea to consider the impact they can have on the environment beneath them…
The Fondation de la Mer and Gestes Propres have joined forces to remind recreational boaters that protecting the ocean extends beyond simply keeping plastic and other rubbish out of the water. Their message also focuses on respecting marine wildlife and fragile habitats.
The stakes are considerable. Oceans absorb around a quarter of carbon dioxide generated by human activity and more than 90 per cent of excess heat, playing a vital role in regulating the planet’s climate.
In the Mediterranean, Posidonia seagrass meadows are particularly important. These slow-growing underwater ecosystems store carbon while providing habitats for numerous species, yet careless anchoring can cause significant damage. Boaters are encouraged to use tools such as the DONIA app to identify suitable sandy areas for dropping anchor.
Other simple measures include slowing down when marine animals are nearby and ensuring nothing blows overboard.
The campaign’s message is ultimately straightforward: enjoying the Mediterranean comes with a responsibility to understand and respect the extraordinary ecosystem beneath the surface.
Image: Euronews