Greece Establishes Southern Aegean Marine Park, Boosts Marine Protection with EU Funds and New Vessels

Greece is significantly advancing its environmental goals by establishing the Southern Aegean Marine Park, a move that directly links marine protection with the country's developmental prospects. This initiative is bolstered by European funding and a substantial investment in the green economy.

Minister Stavros Papastavrou announced the signing of the Presidential Decree for the Southern Aegean Marine Park, specifically the South Cyclades. This action brings Greece closer to meeting the EU's 2030 environmental targets. The project is supported by funds from the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), which is financing the acquisition of three state-of-the-art surveillance vessels. The first of these, named "Syrna," has already been received by the Hellenic Organisation for the Management of Protected Areas (OEPAK).

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Today we received the first of three state-of-the-art vessels that will strengthen OEPAK. With this, it will be able to monitor the protected marine areas of our country. For our country, the sea is not just environment. It is part of our history, our culture, our identity.

This investment extends to human capital, with OEPAK being strengthened by 300 new permanent positions. These roles will create added value and actively support sustainable development. The ministry also indicated that a Presidential Decree for the Ionian Sea marine park will follow in the coming weeks. Greece aims to protect over 35% of its seas by early 2027, exceeding the EU's 30% mandate for 2030.

The "Syrna" vessel, one of three modern vessels secured through the RRF, will enhance OEPAK's operational capabilities in monitoring, surveillance, and safeguarding the nation's marine protected areas. These vessels are designed for safe and rapid navigation even in adverse weather conditions, contributing to more effective protection of marine biodiversity and swift response to incidents. The name "Syrna" is linked to a rocky islet and the Aegean Sea area where the vessel will operate, reflecting its role in surveillance and continuous maritime presence.

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We are completing the two marine parks and providing the means and the people to monitor them. And this is being done with a new General Directorate at OEPAK.