΄Awareness Journey΄ for protection of Mediterranean monk seal arriving in Corfu

A unique and pioneering journey dedicated to marine protection arrives in Corfu tomorrow. The large-scale awareness campaign Seal Greece, which aims to raise awareness about the conservation of the Mediterranean monk seal Monachus monachus, will dock at the Gouvia Marina on July 18 and 19, as part of its route through the Ionian Sea.

The mission’s route began in Zakynthos (July 12–13), continued in Lefkada (July 15–16), followed by Corfu (July 18–19), and will conclude in Paxos (July 21–22). The mission is carried out using two environmentally friendly sailing boats with low or zero emissions, which carry both a message of environmental responsibility and technological innovation.

The campaign is organised by the Organisation for Natural Environment and Climate Change and the Monk Seal Alliance. It travels across Greece aboard two low- or zero-emission ecological sailing vessels. Through live narration, hands-on activities, and interactive tools, the mission members aim to inform and mobilise local communities to protect endangered marine species and ecosystems.

The Mediterranean monk seal is one of the rarest marine mammals in the world, with a global population of fewer than 1,000 individuals. Half of them are found in Greek waters, making Greece critically important for the species’ survival. However, increased human presence, disturbance from tourist boats, excessive noise, and uncontrolled anchoring seriously threaten their natural habitat.

At the heart of the campaign is Mona — a digital seal that “appears” via an augmented reality (AR) application at seal hotspots, providing helpful information and guidance on how to minimise disturbance. This innovative approach allows both residents and visitors to actively contribute to marine conservation, combining technology with environmental education.

The “Awareness Journey” invites the residents of Corfu to become active participants in this initiative. Local organisations, marinas, and professionals from the maritime and tourism sectors are encouraged to get involved by distributing informational materials, promoting the Mona AR app, and adopting responsible sailing practices.

Under the slogan “We Sail with Care, We Protect the Rare,” the mission continues its voyage through the Ionian Sea, with its presence in Corfu offering a valuable opportunity for public engagement and education for both the local community and the island’s visitors.

ANNA LAZAI

Photo: Bruno D'Amicis_The Wild Line Photography