Five Measures to Protect Seagrass in the Balearic Islands

A plan that seeks to raise sailors’ awareness and involve them in the conservation of seagrass meadows

What does it consist of?

Conserving Posidonia seagrass meadows is a priority for the Balearic Islands. A plan led by the Balearic Environmental Council has achieved the marine industry’s collaboration through signage, information at ports and direct communication channels with sailors. Measures were put in place between 2018 and 2023.

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Data

PROJECT TITLE IN THE CALL
We are posidonia: signage and communication of the submarine landscape and recreational shipping
LOCATION
Mallorca, Minorca, Ibiza, Formentera
Entity submitting the PROJECT
Govern de les Illes Balears
Entity that executes the project
Conselleria de Medi Ambient i Territori
Project code
ITS2018-071
Total project amount
391.104 €
ITS granted amount
391.104 €
Executed amount
357.909 €
Call year
2018
Execution status
Executed
Purpose
Environment
Budget execution
Executed: 91.51%
Last data request
08.02.2024

The project

The protection of Posidonia seagrass, a key marine species for Mediterranean coastal ecosystems, has become an environmental priority for the Balearic Islands. Posidonia oceanica meadows act as carbon sinks, a hotspot for biodiversity and a natural barrier against coastal erosion. Damage due to boats failing to anchor correctly has been identified as a threat, especially in high season.

Somos posidonia (We Are Posidonia), a plan partly funded through sustainable tourism tax, has sought the direct involvement of the marine industry through five actions: data buoys installed in sensitive areas, a monitoring centre involving sailing clubs and organisations, information displayed permanently at ports, a helpline, and a campaign to recognise environmentally friendly vessels.

Beyond signage and buoys, the plan has included a comprehensive strategy based on dialogue with sailors. Meetings have been organised and a special label for posidonia-friendly sailing has been created to mark this commitment. Moreover, the technical office set up has provided useful information for future regulations and conservation actions.

The plan has received nearly €400,000 of public funding. The actions were designed to have long-lasting visible impact, especially at the busiest ports and anchorage points across the archipelago. This represents a commitment to bring environmental monitoring together with a shared marine culture.