The European Union (EU) has announced a significant investment of € 116 million in 13 new projects aimed at restoring the health of the oceans and waters. These projects, selected in the context of invitations to submit EU and Waters and Water Proposals, will focus on a series of initiatives, including, inter alia, actions to maintain protected marine offshore areas, to protect the habitat of migrators. and to strengthen local communities, in order to lead the restoration of our oceans, seas and waters.

The 13 projects involving small and medium -sized enterprises, research organizations, local authorities, schools and businesses will bring a wide range of benefits to the oceans and waters in the EU and beyond.

The projects will be implemented in various marine basins and river basins, including the Black Sea, the Danube, the Baltic and the Northern Sea, the Mediterranean, as well as areas of the Atlantic and Arctic.

Some of the most notable projects include the Seamphoni project, which will use advanced technology to monitor offshore marine biodiversity, as well as the Danubelifelines project, which will restore migratory routes to the Danube. Other projects, such as Eco-Catch and the Marineguardian, will develop new fishery technologies to reduce unwanted pests and protect marine habitats.

The investment is being made in the framework of the “Horizon Europe” program, which aims to find solutions to some of the biggest challenges of society. The projects were selected following evaluation by independent experts, while more details on selected projects, including budget and beneficiaries, are available on the EU mission website. With this significant investment, the EU is taking a significant step towards restoring the health of the oceans and the health of the oceans and the European to ensure a sustainable future for future generations.

Nikos Andritsos