News
Sea Shepherd Italy Launches a Bold New Campaign to Defend the Cinque Terre Marine Sanctuary
Wednesday, 09 Oct, 2024
For the past two months, Sea Shepherd Italy has been on the front lines of ocean conservation in the Mediterranean Sea once again, embarking on a new campaign to safeguard the Cinque Terre Marine Protected Area. In close collaboration with the Cinque Terre National Park Authority, we've been patrolling these pristine waters since July 1st, determined to protect this extraordinary coastal habitat from illegal fishing and activities that threaten its rich biodiversity.
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Photos by Sea Shepherd. Scroll right for more images.
Our Volunteers’ Unwavering Vigilance
Our dedicated volunteers have been tirelessly navigating the boundaries of the marine sanctuary, vigilantly identifying, documenting, and reporting violations to authorities. Armed with passion and purpose, they're not just enforcing laws—they're defending the future of our oceans.
Engaging the Community
But our mission doesn't stop at enforcement. Aboard the vessels of the Cinque Terre Park, our volunteers are also fostering a deeper connection between the sea and the local communities. Through engaging meetings, educational activities, and guided tours, we're igniting a wave of awareness and respect for the marine environment, inspiring others to join the fight for its preservation.
Partnership with the Cinque Terre National Park Authority
Donatella Bianchi, President of the Cinque Terre National Park Marine Protected Area, expressed her support:
"We are pleased to collaborate with Sea Shepherd, an international organization that has gained significant experience in other areas, such as the Plemmirio Marine Protected Area, with which we share a common commitment to the protection of cetaceans. The presence of volunteers alongside our operators is crucial not only to strengthen vigilance but also to transform sea users into the primary supporters of its conservation.”
“In one month of activity, over 3,000 people have received information and assistance from Sea Shepherd volunteers regarding the proper use of our marine protected area. This represents a valuable contribution to the daily control and monitoring activities carried out by the Marine Protected Area, aimed at protecting the habitats and visitors of our sea and preventing violations."
Donatella Bianchi, President of the Cinque Terre National Park Marine Protected Area
Protecting a Biological Hotspot
Our united efforts with the Park Authority are crucial for preserving the vital effects of the Marine Protected Area, such as the reserve effect, recruitment effect, and spillover effect. These phenomena are essential for species reproduction and the rejuvenation of nearby marine areas. The Cinque Terre Marine Protected Area, nestled within the Cetacean Sanctuary, is a biological hotspot teeming with marine wildlife, rivaling even the bountiful Atlantic waters. Each summer, this region becomes a haven for fin whales, dolphins, beaked whales, and sperm whales—all converging in the Ligurian-Provençal basin to feed and prepare for the challenges of winter.
Andrea Morello, President of Sea Shepherd Italy, shares his excitement:
“We are thrilled to stand shoulder to shoulder with the Cinque Terre National Park Authority. Even in just one month, we've pinpointed a significant issue—acoustic pollution from boat traffic that's affecting the park's marine life. Drawing from a decade of experience protecting the Plemmirio Marine Park and seven years of our SISO campaign in the Tyrrhenian Sea focused on cetacean protection, we're ready to implement a successful model of marine conservation throughout the Mediterranean."
“Operating in the Cinque Terre Park, especially within the Pelagos Cetacean Sanctuary, allows us to leverage our accumulated expertise. It's our way of ensuring a thriving future for the sea and all its inhabitants on this magnificent blue planet.”
Andrea Morello, President of Sea Shepherd Italy
Building on a Decade of Experience
By applying successful conservation models from previous campaigns like Plemmirio and SISO, we're enhancing our strategies to protect marine life in the Cinque Terre and beyond. Our experience enables us to tackle new challenges effectively, ensuring that our efforts have a lasting impact.
Sea Shepherd Italy remains steadfast in its mission: defending marine wildlife and habitats with unwavering commitment.
Watch the campaign launch video below: