Launch of the Salina Blue Island Project

The “Salina Blue Island” project has been launched in Salina, an initiative by local associations Nesos, Kurma, and  Condotta Isole Slow Siciliane, supported by the Blue Marine Foundation and the Sicily Environment Fund. The project aims to involve the local community and visitors in the process of establishing the Salina Marine Protected Area (MPA) through a program of information and awareness about sea conservation.

The island’s collective journey towards creating the first MPA in the Aeolian archipelago has recently led to a forward-thinking policy focused on promoting the island’s sustainable development.

‘Salina Blue Island’ includes a rich calendar of initiatives. Nesos will facilitate meetings with local administrations and stakeholders to discuss the management opportunities offered by the MPA and inform local communities about the importance of marine protection. Active involvement will be essential for the network monitoring the nests and nesting attempts of the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta). Additionally, an artist residency focused on the protection of ecosystems and marine species will be organized in collaboration with active cultural organizations on the island. Condotta Isole Slow Siciliane has initiated a network of fishers and restaurateurs as custodians of marine biodiversity, who offer local catches provided by the Responsible Fishing Association, including gastronomic events promoting responsible consumption of seafood. Kurma will lead a snorkeling program for middle school students, who will explore the marine biodiversity of the island and the MPA of Capo Milazzo.

An informational campaign will highlight the most relevant habitats and species of the Salina sea as well as the opportunities and benefits of MPAs. A snorkeling guide with illustrative images will showcase the wonders of the Mediterranean and the island’s sea to Salina’s middle school students. Additionally, questionnaires will be offered to local stakeholders to gather insights, ideas, and expectations regarding the island’s marine conservation.

Nesos, Condotta Isole Slow Siciliane, and Kurma, associations deeply rooted in the Aeolian territory, are bringing their expertise and passion to this shared and conscious journey, hoping it will soon lead to the establishment of the first MPA in the Aeolian Islands. This is a significant goal for an island like Salina, which has long been making decisive steps towards sustainable and innovative choices.

The Blue Marine Foundation and the Sicily Environment Fund have long supported awareness initiatives for the protection of the Aeolian Islands’ sea and will continue to support Salina’s grassroots journey, ensuring that the Salina MPA can become an example of participatory and inclusive management for the entire island community.

The initiative has received the patronage of all the island’s municipalities, Santa Marina Salina, Malfa, and Leni, as well as the Salina Marine Protected Area Committee and the Responsible Fishing Association.

Follow updates on the “Salina Blue Island” project at https://sicilyenvironment.org/it/grants/salina-blue-island/