A one-day conference held on Wednesday, September 24, in Menidi, Amfilochia, united the voice of the local community (citizens, professional and amateur fishers, and active local associations) with leading scientists and environmental organizations for Amvrakikos Gulf, one of the most vital wetlands in the Mediterranean. The goal? To find sustainable solutions for the protection of this unique ecosystem, which hosts sea turtles, rare bottlenose dolphins, and thousands of migratory birds.

The Bay's "Protagonists"

ARCHELON's Director, Daphne Mavrogiorgos, presented ARCHELON's unique project in the area: the 20-year continuous monitoring of the loggerhead sea turtles in the Bay. The data is clear: Amvrakikos is a critical feeding ground for the species. However, the turtles face challenges due to intense human activity and environmental degradation. The presentation highlighted the importance of continuous monitoring and protection efforts, as well as the need for immediate interventions.

Furthermore, the event shed light on the other silent, yet equally important, inhabitants: the bottlenose dolphins. Their health status acts as a "red card" and a biological indicator for the water quality of the Bay. When they suffer, the entire ecosystem suffers. The presentations also covered Amvrakikos's international importance as a shelter for thousands of birds, as well as the alarming phenomenon of anoxia (lack of oxygen) that threatens life in its waters.

Amvrakikos Alliance: Science and Local Community, taking Action

The event demonstrated that the solution to the Gulf’ s complex problems lies in effective collaboration. Co-organizers included the Municipality of Amfilochia, the Local Community of Menidi, and the Women's Association of Menidi "Erodios," with "Amvrakikos Alliance" playing a central role. Amvrakikos Alliance is a powerful coalition of leading organizations from Greece and abroad, such as iSea, Tethys Research Institute, ARCHELON, the Hellenic Ornithological Society, the Oceanus Lab, the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture of the University of Patras, and the Blue Marine Foundation. The Alliance's goal is clear: to enhance cooperation for the protection and sustainable management of Amvrakikos through scientific research, information, and awareness campaigns.

Most importantly, the large turnout of citizens and fishers, coupled with the lively discussion that followed, unequivocally confirmed that the local community is ready to become the key ally and driving force in the struggle for the Gulf's salvation.

Amvrakikos's Future: A Shared Responsibility

All the organizations in the Alliance continue with coordinated action, firmly believing that the protection of sea turtles and their sensitive ecosystems is a collective responsibility. The message from Menidi is clear: The future of Amvrakikos is not solely in the hands of scientists, but also in the hands of all those who live in and love this unique ecosystem. Only together, through coordinated action and awareness, can we ensure that the turtles, the dolphins, and the thousands of birds continue to find a safe haven and a healthy future in Amvrakikos.