Environmental Organizations Dedicated to Marine Protection
With our oceans facing unprecedented threats from pollution, overfishing, and climate crisis, the role of environmental organizations dedicated to marine protection has never been more crucial. These Greek organizations work tirelessly to safeguard our seas, advocating for sustainable practices, conducting research, and implementing conservation initiatives. Their efforts are crucial in preserving the delicate balance of marine life and ensuring a healthier future for our planet.
OZON NGO
OZON’s NGO actions encompass researching, raising awareness, mobilizing citizens, collaborating with scientific institutions and local authorities, and implementing sustainable solutions to address environmental issues. Their research on the impact of aquaculture on pollution at the Saronic Gulf coasts was presented to the Parliament’s Special Committee for the Protection of the Environment. The research study revealed that styrofoam, which is extensively used by fish farms and often abandoned post-business operations, poses a significant pollution threat. In response, Ozon NGO initiated a coastal clean-up program targeting styrofoam removal.
Enaleia
Enaleia is an organization with a vision to make the marine ecosystem sustainable through circular and social economy solutions. The organization runs several projects worldwide, from mega cleanup projects to consultancy & research projects. Their innovative program for fishers “Mediterranean Cleanup” not only engages over 1500 individuals from Greece and Italy in the collective effort to safeguard our seas but also ensures that the debris collected undergoes upcycling. By retrieving plastic waste from the ocean, they’ve already amassed over 900,000 kilograms of marine debris. This initiative not only cleanses our waters but also empowers fishers to play a proactive role in environmental conservation, demonstrating their commitment to preserving marine ecosystems.
Athanasios C. Laskaridis Charitable Foundation
The Athanasios C. Laskaridis Charitable Foundation focuses on the protection of the marine environment, the support of employment and micro-entrepreneurship as well as the fostering of initiatives, which defend collective interest and enhance transparency. Launched in 2019, the “Typhoon Project” utilizes a modern 72-meter vessel to clean the entire Greek coastline year-round. Equipped with 5 speed boats and large sorting containers, the project aims to recycle collected waste while collaborating with academic institutions to address Mediterranean marine pollution. We were very fortunate to have the Typhoon ship visit the northern beaches of Poros last summer.
Healthy Seas
Healthy Seas tackles the ghost fishing phenomenon which is responsible for the needless death of marine animals. Through cleanups with volunteer divers and by working with stakeholders of the fishing sector toward marine litter prevention, the organization collects waste nets and ensures they become a valuable resource. Nylon fishing nets are regenerated together with other nylon waste by Aquafil into ECONYL® yarn for the fashion and interior industries. Healthy Seas’ mission on Ithaka, featured in “Journey to Ithaka”, transformed devastation into paradise by removing 76 tons of debris with a team of 45 volunteers -alongside other organizations such as Enaleia- restoring the island’s pristine beauty.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the environmental organizations committed to the safeguarding of our marine ecosystems in Greece. Their commitment inspires us to take action. As individuals, we can also contribute to this important cause by reducing our reliance on single-use plastics and by actively participating in beach cleanups and other initiatives aimed at preserving our precious oceans. Together, through collective and individual action, we can make a meaningful difference for future generations.
You can become a volunteer at Katheti. Fill out the volunteer application and start this wonderful journey with us!
As a local teacher or student, you get the benefit of free membership at Katheti!
