Med Sea Alliance meeting in Mallorca to advance marine conservation in the Mediterranean 

For three days,  8-10 October, 18 organisations from around the Mediterranean will gather in Mallorca to discuss marine conservation at the annual meeting of the Med Sea Alliance. The alliance works to restore the Mediterranean Sea as a rich and resilient ecosystem, where fishing rules and practices support the health of the marine environment and benefit the communities that depend on it. 

This meeting in Mallorca is a unique opportunity to highlight the Balearic Islands as an example of marine conservation. As Aniol Esteban, president of the Med Sea Alliance and director of Marilles Foundation, explains: "This meeting is a step forward to consolidate the Balearic Islands' leadership in marine protection in the Mediterranean. Our commitment is clear: to increase the protection of our seas and ensure health for future generations. International collaboration is essential to ensure that our marine protected areas (MPAs) are truly effective. This Med Sea Alliance meeting is an opportunity to join forces, share solutions, and accelerate the protection of our seas.’ 

Karlijn Steinbusch, Director of the Med Sea Alliance: ‘As we gather in the Balearics, a region vital to Mediterranean biodiversity, it's important to note that only 0.23% of the Mediterranean sea is under strict protection, limiting human activity to restore marine ecosystems. By 2030, we believe every Mediterranean country must ensure that at least 10% of the sea is strictly protected. These vulnerable areas are essential breeding grounds for marine life and crucial for climate resilience. The Balearics can lead the way, setting the standard for marine conservation across the region.’

During the meeting, strategies to expand MPA, reduce the impacts of destructive fishing practices, combat illegal fishing, and develop policies to ensure sustainable management of marine resources will be discussed. 

Zafer Kizilkaya, winner of the Goldman Environment Prize 2023, who has successfully led the recovery project of Gökova Bay in Türkiye, one of the most protected and restored marine areas in the Mediterranean, will be among the attendees. His presence in Mallorca is an opportunity to highlight the possibilities offered by stricter protection in terms of ecosystem restoration, increased biodiversity, and improved long-term economic sustainability. Kizilkaya's experience in Gökova is a clear example of the benefits that can be gained when working with local communities and governments to protect marine ecosystems.