Sustainability Journey from Marmara to the Mediterranean Project
The Marine Life Conservation Society set out from Heybeliada, Istanbul, to address several critical issues: the recent mucilage problem, the threats posed by invasive species to marine life and fisheries, the significant declines in fish stocks, and the pressure of plastic waste in our seas. Additionally, the journey aims to promote local collaboration and solidarity-focused civil protection practices emerging worldwide.
The adventure, which will be completed with a return to Heybeliada after an event in Kaş, Antalya, seeks to highlight the importance of marine and coastal protection in our country’s fight against climate change and to assert itself as a self-sufficient journey.
Ege, Karadeniz ve Akdeniz, Marmara Denizi Varsa Var!”
As the Marine Life Conservation Society, we implemented the "Sustainability Journey from the Sea of Marmara to the Mediterranean" project, which is a first for Turkey. During the project, in the 100th year of our Republic, we conducted 100 dives in 100 different locations over 100 days. On the Heybeliada - Kekova - Heybeliada route, we recorded over 200 hours of footage during a 1,700 nautical mile coastal journey. Through dives conducted within specific limits, we identified 428 common species between the Sea of Marmara, the Aegean Sea, and the Mediterranean.
The work documented the state of biodiversity in our seas, observations of invasive species, and pressures on local species. Discussions were held with scientists about the status of endangered corals and other species. Dialogues and consultations were conducted with small-scale fishing cooperatives in the Mediterranean about species and their conditions, and ancient knowledge was gathered from the region’s oldest mariners. Additionally, underwater cleanups were carried out at selected ports, and various artworks were created with the help of local artists to raise awareness about marine pollution, culminating in an exhibition.
In light of all the data collected during the project, our book titled "Marmara’s Last Refuge" was published. Additionally, our documentary of the same name has been completed and is soon to be released to the public.
