LIFE at 2nd EU Blue Parks Community Workshop

The workshop explored and showcased approaches to effective marine management by EU-funded projects, examined how EU Member States are committing to the 30x30 target, and reviewed case studies and good practices in marine protection, restoration, and management. These case studies and good practices encompassed governance and community-led initiatives within the Mission Ocean, as well as innovation and best practices. 

The LIFE Programme was represented by LIFE MareNatura, LIFE Delfi, and LIFE Tartalife. 

More about the projects: 

LIFE MareNatura represents a pioneering environmental initiative addressing threats to nine vulnerable marine species in Greek waters. These species include the Mediterranean Monk Seal, the Loggerhead Turtle, the Green Turtle, the Sperm Whale, the Harbour Porpoise, the Cuvier’s Beaked Whale, the Common Dolphin, the Yelkouan Shearwater, and the Audouin’s Gull. 

LIFE Delfi's primary objective is to mitigate dolphin mortality resulting from fishing activities. This is being achieved through the implementation of innovative technical solutions aimed at reducing interactions between dolphins and professional fishing operations in various areas of Italy and Croatia. These solutions focus on modifying fishing gear and fostering the development of alternative economic activities. 

LIFE Tartalife is dedicated to reducing sea turtle mortality by addressing bycatches caused by pelagic longline, bottom trawl, and fixed nets. The project aims to achieve this by promoting the use of circle hooks and Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs), as well as testing ultraviolet (UV) lamps as deterrents for sea turtles. Additionally, LIFE Tartalife seeks to minimise post-capture mortality by providing training to fishermen and enhancing Marine Turtle First Aid/Rescue Centers.