The challenge
Posidonia oceanica is much more than an underwater plant – it is one of the most valuable marine ecosystems in the Mediterranean. Often called the “lungs of the sea,” these seagrass meadows produce oxygen, store large amounts of carbon, stabilize sediments, and provide critical habitat for countless marine species. Their presence supports biodiversity, clean water, fisheries, and natural coastal protection.
Despite their importance, Posidonia meadows are in rapid decline due to human activity. One of the main threats is anchoring from recreational boats, which tear up the seagrass and prevent its natural recovery. In some areas, including the Bay of St. John’s of Deti in northern Paros, degradation has reached the point where natural regeneration is no longer possible—and active restoration is urgently needed.
Photographic records and accounts from local residents confirm the significant decline of Posidonia in this once-thriving natural harbor. Without intervention, both the marine ecosystem and the sustainable future of the bay are at risk.
The solution
Under the CLIMAREST project, a consortium of European partners is collaboratively working to develop nature-based restoration solutions tailored to coastal areas impacted by climate change and human pressures.
As the Greek Replication Site, restoration work in Paros begins with relieving the ecosystem of the pressures that caused damage to Posidonia meadows. Focusing on the Bay of St. John’s of Deti, this entails introducing low-impact anchoring practices, such as eco-mooring systems, and encouraging responsible behavior among boaters and visitors. Community involvement is key—fostering awareness and a sense of shared responsibility helps create long-term protection for restored areas.
Once the right conditions are in place, restoration techniques can begin. These efforts aim to regenerate the ecosystem and build resilience against future threats.
Climarest Project
CLIMAREST seeks to develop and demonstrate restoration tools and activities at five demonstration sites across Europe—from Svalbard in the high north to Madeira in the south. CLIMAREST is an EU-funded research project consisting of 18 partners along the European coastline. It is part of the EU Mission “Restore our Ocean and Waters” and a member of the Lighthouse for the Arctic and Atlantic Basin.
Activities
Restoring a marine ecosystem is not a one-step process—it’s a journey that combines science, local knowledge, and collective action. In the Bay of St. John’s of Deti, our activities aim not only to bring back Posidonia oceanica but to create a new relationship between people and the sea.
The main phases of the project include:
- Stakeholders and Citizen Engagement
- Restoration Protocols and Technology
- Transplants and Demonstration Site
- Upscaling and Replication
- Communication and Dissemination
Partners for the Paros Replication Site
Within the framework of this Climarest Replication Site, CPF continues its close collaboration for the protection of Posidonia oceanica with:
The Municipality of Paros
Playing a key role in advocating for the restoration project within the local community, the Municipality of Paros actively supports public engagement through events, education, and participation in restoration actions. By providing local and traditional ecological knowledge, the Municipality helps ensure the project reflects community values and priorities.
The Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR)
HCMR brings scientific leadership to the project, and coordinates field studies, monitoring, and data analysis. HCMR also provides technical expertise for the design and implementation of restoration strategies, while also facilitating collaboration between science, policy, and stakeholders.
For more information about the CLIMAREST project and its work across Europe, visit climarest.eu or https://www.linkedin.com/company/climarest
