Marine conservation

Sicily is among the Italian regions with the highest number of marine protected areas and represents one of the main reservoirs of coastal and marine biodiversity in the Mediterranean. Its spectacular coasts, together with the large number of islands, islets, and rocks surrounding the mainland, make the region unique and rich in fragile ecosystems of high conservation value. These environments, which host rare species and vulnerable habitats, require targeted interventions to preserve their ecological functionality and resilience against human impacts and climate change. SEF supports marine conservation initiatives organized around several priority actions, including:

-Reducing the impacts of overfishing by promoting small-scale sustainable fishing and responsible practices;

-Monitoring at-risk species and protected habitats through scientific research programs;

-Strengthening a broader, integrated, and well-managed network of Marine Protected Areas to ensure the long-term protection of biodiversity;

-Raising awareness among local communities and visitors about the value of marine ecosystems and the importance of sustainable behaviors, fostering a shared culture of environmental stewardship.