Greece Unveils Mediterranean's Largest Marine Parks Plans
Greece has announced plans to establish two expansive marine parks in the Ionian and Aegean seas. Aimed at protecting marine life, these parks will help the nation achieve its goal of 30% protected waters by 2030. The initiative has stirred diplomatic tensions with Turkey over maritime boundaries.
Greece made headlines on Monday by announcing the locations of two proposed marine parks aimed at conserving marine life in the Ionian and Aegean seas. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis touted these as the largest such parks in the Mediterranean region, set to be established by the end of the year.
The initiative seeks to preserve a diverse range of sea creatures, including turtles, seabirds, and seals, while proactively meeting Greece's international pledge to designate 30% of its waters as protected by 2030. Importantly, activities like trawling will be banned within the park zones, safeguarding the marine ecosystem.
The announcement has, however, stoked tensions with Turkey over maritime boundaries. While Greece asserts that the prospective park areas fall within its territorial waters, Turkey has criticized the move as an exploitation of environmental issues and promised to announce its own protective measures. The parks are expected to cover 27,500 square kilometres, with further expansions planned.
(With inputs from agencies.)
Google News