Greece submits South Aegean National Marine Park plan to Council of State

The Greek Ministry of Environment and Energy has submitted a draft Presidential Decree to the Council of State for the establishment of the South Aegean 1 – Southern Cyclades National Marine Park. This initiative aims to protect over 9,000 square kilometers of marine territory and 250 square kilometers of land.

The proposed regulations include a ban on motorized trawling, seasonal fishing restrictions, and a gradual limitation of unregulated anchoring in sensitive habitats. To mitigate the impact on local livelihoods, the plan includes provisions for financial support for affected fishers.

The park will encompass 73 island complexes and includes several Natura 2000 terrestrial areas, such as those near Milos, Santorini, Amorgos, and Sifnos. This move fulfills a commitment made by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis during the 2024 ‘Our Ocean’ conference in Athens to create two national marine parks in Greece.