Serious and alarming findings brings to light a new independent study of the University of Oxford, which substantiates extensive and possibly irreversible degradation of Posidonia Oceanica in the Argosaronic.

Scientists record strong pressure from existing intensive fish farming units, with the island of Poros, while concern is growing in the face of a plan to radically expand the areas of organized aquaculture development – from about 9,000 to more than 240,000 acres.

To date, the available knowledge of the environmental and socio-economic imprint of aquaculture in the area was incomplete. The study aims to enhance the knowledge of more right decision -making and to support the competent authorities and local communities and bodies with data so that they can substantially participate in the formation of the development model of their area.

Scientifically documented findings

The study was entrusted to the Oxford International University, internationally recognized for its know-how in maritime socio-ecological systems, and was funded by the Argosaronic Environment Foundation (AEF) and the Rauch Foundation, with the support of the Katheti local organization.

It is a continuation of previous joint actions, such as the mapping of Posidonia meadows in Poros and Methana, and aims to provide documented data to the authorities and local communities, so that they can substantially participate in policy -making for their region.

The first results are revealing: the degradation of the meadows extends to up to 900 meters from the units – multiple from the limits that propose previous scientific studies. In a radius of 450 meters, the coverage of Poseidonia occurs by 53%, while its leaves are reduced by up to 46% in 20 years.

Even 14 years after the removal of units, the ecosystem seems to have not recovered. Scientists refer to limited durability and minimal natural regeneration capacity, since Poseidonia extends at a rate of only 1 to 6 cm a year. In some areas, the total area of degraded habitats is estimated to be doubled – from 8.5 to 15.6 square kilometers.

Beyond the ecological deterioration itself, the study highlights something deeper: the lack of meaningful planning. The existing spatial map -in force since 2011 -allows units to operate just 50 meters from the coastline, without taking into account ecological boundaries, interactions with other activities or cumulative pressure in the marine environment. The impact on tourism activity and small -scale fishing are silenced, while local communities remain on the sidelines when critical decisions are made on the future of their country.

Clean Protection and Participation Framework: What is required from now on

What is clearly emerged is the need for a new institutional and spatial framework based on documented data, the principles of sustainability and local needs.

Effective protection of ecosystems and preserve natural resources is needed, with an emphasis on maintaining adequate distances from sensitive habitats, such as Poseidonia meadows. The provision of such distances should be based on both legislation and international best practices, taking into account the new scientific data and the need to modify the 2011 spatial planning.

At the heart of the proposals is the preparation of an integrated marine spatial plan, which will balance the need for productive activity by protecting the natural environment and ensuring social acceptance. At the same time, it is considered critical to strengthen the institutional dialogue in order to form a sustainable, participatory and fair development model for Poros and the wider Argosaronic, which will respect the environment and operate for the benefit of local communities and future generations.

The results of the study were also presented to the Hellenic Parliament, framed by interventions by legal, scientists and representatives of the Local Government. As Eva Douzina, president of the Rauch Foundation, pointed out, “the power of the scientific data we have in our hands is enough to stop any plan that endangers Poseidonia. The future of the Mediterranean depends on the wisdom of our current decisions. “

Daphne Mantziou, AEF’s executive director, added: “We are proud to have mobilized this scientific research, which offers documented data on the guidance of sustainable spatial planning options. As a Foundation, we remain firmly committed to safeguarding the natural wealth of the Argosaronic and to the support of active local communities that shape the future of their place. “