In an unprecedented act of generosity, a pool of international philanthropists, including names such as Dona Bertarelli and Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, has earmarked US$60.8 million for the protection of the Mediterranean Sea. This funding was announced during the Our Ocean 2024 Conference, highlighting a concrete commitment to the protection of one of the world’s most valuable marine ecosystems.
The announcement was made during the Our Ocean 2024 Conference held in Athens, Greece. This initiative is spearheaded by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, with the support of major public and private donors. The generous donation is intended to support marine conservation projects over the next five years.
Environmental challenges in the Mediterranean
The Mediterranean Sea, celebrated for its unique biodiversity and ecological importance, is facing increasing threats. Climate change, pollution and unsustainable fishing practices are straining the region’s marine ecosystems. Currently, only 8.33 percent of the Mediterranean is under protection, with regulations often weaker within marine protected areas.
Aware of the urgency of the situation, funders stress the need for decisive action to preserve the Mediterranean’s delicate balance. These funds aim to phase out destructive practices such as trawling and strengthen the management of existing marine protected areas.
Statements from key players
H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco said, “Efforts to protect the Mediterranean Sea have grown over the years, but not fast enough. Urgent action is needed at all levels if we are to achieve this ambitious goal.”
Ben Goldsmith, president and founder of Conservation Collective, commented, “We are excited to see our budget for marine protection projects in the Mediterranean grow year by year.”
Dona Bertarelli, philanthropist and ocean advocate, expressed her pride in being part of a collective effort to expand protection of the Mediterranean: “I hope our collaborative approach can inspire global efforts and serve as a model for protecting invaluable natural resources for generations to come.”
Hopes for the future
This financial support is a significant step toward safeguarding the Mediterranean Sea and the ” 30×30 ” goal, adopted under the 2022 kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, to safeguard at least 30 percent of the world’s land and water by 2030.
(Crucial support for the Mediterranean: US$60.8 million for marine protection – barchemagazine.com – April 2024)
