The challenge
The underwater ecosystem of Santorini is a vibrant and diverse marine environment shaped by the island’s volcanic origin, and while the Caldera is a breathtaking sight to behold, its waters and underwater caves are also home for local fish species, sponges, sea urchins.
Τhis delicate ecosystem faces significant environmental challenges influenced by multiple stressors of anthropogenic and natural origin, such as maritime transport, fisheries, industrial tourism, volcanic activity, hydrothermal venting, and others. Climate change and rising sea temperatures further disrupt the balance of the ecosystem, leading to habitat loss and changes in species distribution.
The solution
Αn important tool for highlighting the challenge and guiding efficient solutions on a larger scale is to support common knowledge and inform people through scientific data and research.
CPF supports Dive in Action with the suitable equipment to collect these data and share them with Universities and international research programs such as the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens to the program “nexus monARC“, the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and the Institute for the Study and Monitoring of the Volcano of Santorini, as well as the University of the Aegean.
Activities
Four underwater temperature stations will be placed at a depth of 10, 20 and 30 metres, collecting water quality data such as acidity, dissolved oxygen, dissolved solids, and pressure contributing to a total of 12 seawater quality indicators .
The information collected will be shared with the above mentioned institutions as well as with the general public giving all a better understanding of the environmental situation of Caldera.
About the Grantee
The environmental organization Dive In Action, based in Santorini, is dedicated to protecting and conserving the natural underwater landscape of the Thera province, with a special focus on the unique and sensitive formations of the volcanic caldera. In addition to its efforts in Santorini, the organization actively participates in projects across 23 other islands.
Dive In Action employs research, data collection, and systematic analysis as its primary tools for monitoring and preserving the seabed’s health and biodiversity.
What you can do
- Follow us on Social Media (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin) and stay tuned for the updates concerning the waters of the Caldera of Santorini.
- Stand by CPF to continue supporting unique projects