"Our Ocean" conference: Almost 60 million euros for the protection of the Mediterranean Sea

"30x30" means that at least 30 per cent of the world's land and water should be protected by 2030. This is the "Convention on Biological Diversity", to which the signatory states agreed at the 15th COP (Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity). in Kunming, China, and Montreal 2022. An ambitious goal. After all, only 8.33 per cent of the area in the Mediterranean is currently protected

In the short term, at least 10 per cent are to be designated as "strictly protected areas". This will require around 260 million euros. At the "Our Ocean" conference, which took place in Athens from 15 to 17 April, prominent donors, including Prince Albert II of Monaco, pledged their support for this ambitious goal to the tune of 60.8 million dollars (around 57 million euros).

Climate change, pollution and unsustainable fishing practices are threatening marine biodiversity in the Mediterranean. Decisive action is needed to preserve these fragile ecosystems. This includes ending bottom trawling and strengthening existing marine protected areas such as the Pelagos Protected Area. The conference in Athens has now brought together a considerable donation from private and public donors.

• These projects are available for marine conservation

Prominent supporters for the Mediterranean

"Efforts to protect the Mediterranean Sea have grown over the years, but not fast enough," said Prince Albert II of Monaco, who pledged his foundation's support for marine conservation. "Last year, countries committed to achieving the global '30x30' target. If we are to achieve this ambitious goal, urgent action is needed at all levels. With this pledge, private and public donors are calling on others to join the effort. We pledge to work towards effective protection of 30% by 2030, including strict protection of 10%."

Among the prominent supporters is the entrepreneur and passionate water sports enthusiast Dona Bertarelli: "I am proud to be part of a collective effort to expand the protection of the Mediterranean Sea, a region of immense ecological importance and rich biodiversity. With the launch of the '30x30' funding pledge, we are united in our goal to ensure that 30 per cent of the Mediterranean is effectively protected. This commitment is based on the principles of inclusive decision-making and the empowerment of local communities, which are crucial for the sustainable future of the Mediterranean. By allocating more financial resources to marine conservation, we are investing in sound, positive conservation initiatives that protect both biodiversity and local livelihoods. I am confident that our joint approach will inspire global efforts and serve as a model for the protection of invaluable natural resources for generations to come."

Ben Goldsmith, Chairman and Founder of the Conservation Collective: "We are delighted that our budget for marine conservation projects across the Conservation Collective's network in the Mediterranean is growing year on year. There is so much to do."