Sardinia nautical operators seek stricter environmental rules

Nautical operators and environmental committees in Sardinia are calling for stricter and more uniform regulations to protect the marine ecosystems of the La Maddalena Archipelago and surrounding coasts.

The Associazione Operatori Nautici NordEst Sardegna has proposed new criteria for beach access to safeguard fragile dunes and vegetation. Their proposal includes limiting beach access to swimming only, prohibiting the transport of equipment onto the sand, and restricting stays to the shoreline. A key demand is the equal application of these rules to all user categories to ensure effective environmental protection.

Simultaneously, the “Amici di Talmone e Cala di Trana” Committee has raised alarms regarding the impact of high-density nautical tourism on Posidonia oceanica meadows. With up to 6,500 vessels operating in areas with a daily capacity of 2,500, anchors and chains are causing significant damage to these essential seagrasses. The committee is advocating for heavier sanctions, increased controls, and the installation of protective mooring systems to prevent erosion and preserve biodiversity, citing much stricter penalty models used in France.