Greece Leads the Charge in Marine Conservation

Greece has taken a bold step forward in marine conservation, announcing initiatives totalling 780 million euros to protect its diverse marine ecosystems and combat coastal pollution. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis unveiled plans for two marine parks—one in the Ionian Sea and another in the Aegean Sea—covering a significant portion of Greece's territorial waters.

Central to Greece's conservation efforts is the ban on bottom trawling in all national marine parks and protected areas by 2030, signalling a commitment to mitigate the impact of industrial fishing on marine habitats. The introduction of state-of-the-art surveillance systems, including drones, will enhance enforcement and compliance with environmental regulations.

Despite challenges, including tensions with neighbouring Turkey over the Aegean Sea marine park, Greece remains steadfast in its commitment to environmental preservation. The comprehensive strategy also includes measures to reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainable practices, such as expanding the network of charging stations for electric vessels.

As Greece prepares to host the "Our Ocean" conference, it is poised to showcase its leadership in marine conservation. With over 400 new commitments totaling $10 billion expected during the conference, Greece's initiatives serve as a beacon of hope for a sustainable future for our oceans.

Through collective action and collaboration, Greece is spearheading efforts to protect marine biodiversity and preserve our planet's ecosystems for future generations.

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