MedCities recently participated in the “Restoration of Marine Ecosystems: Strategies and Successes of Mediterranean Cities” workshop held in Genova. Hosted by the Genova City Council, a member city, the workshop focused on restoring and preserving marine ecosystems in Mediterranean towns.

During the workshop, on June 14th, Vanessa Sarah Salvo from Embimos, ICM-CSIC, discussed strategies and success stories for restoring marine ecosystems in Mediterranean cities. Clara Pinna of the Genova City Council presented Genoa’s EU Mission and coastal initiatives. Silvia Campailla also from the Genova City Council introduced the Bauhaus of the Seas Sails project (BoSS), highlighting sustainable practices in marine environments. Practical case studies included Chiara Robello from the Seascape Ecology Lab at the University of Genova presenting successful Posidonia restoration efforts, and Luigi Mucerino from Geoscape discussing the restoration and protection of the Sturla coast, showcasing concrete actions for marine ecosystem conservation.

Berta Companys from CSIC presented the ANERIS project, designed to address the quick decline of ocean biodiversity by developing innovative tools and technologies for monitoring, researching, and managing marine life. This includes conducting long-term, routine measurements and quick dissemination of data to stakeholders. An important tool for this is the citizen science platform MINKA, and Biomarathons enabling all users-citizens to share photos and observations of marine and coastal species, contributing to scientific research and improving our understanding of biodiversity and environmental changes in the Mediterranean region.

As partners of ANERIS, MedCities’ role is to promote and facilitate participatory scientific events by engaging our city members. Our presentation emphasized our Initiatives in Coastal and Marine Ecosystems and our collaborative efforts to improve sustainability and resilience in Mediterranean cities. Through our active participation in networks like Ocean Cities and initiatives such as BlueMissionMED and the Mediterranean Lighthouse, MedCities supports projects focused on restoring urban marine ecosystems and combating marine pollution. We also assist local authorities in global plastic treaty negotiations and align our efforts with BlueMissionMED objectives for recognition by the European Commission. Additionally, MedCities is part of the Interreg Euro MED Natural Heritage Mission, reinforcing policy impact and promoting effective environmental policies. By prioritizing green and climate-resilient cities, integrated solid waste management, coastal development, and sustainable urban mobility, MedCities addresses critical concerns for member cities and collaborates with partners to protect urban marine environments and adapt to climate change.

Discussions at the workshop highlighted the importance of advocating for sustainable practices and promoting strategic partnerships across the region. This event served as a crucial platform for sharing best practices and advancing collective efforts towards preserving marine biodiversity and improving the environmental health of Mediterranean cities.

The workshop concluded with an invitation from Edoardo Bordasca, organizer of the Posidonia Green Festival, inviting all participants to join the event on June 15th in Bogliasco, where CSIC and MedCities will be conducting citizen science activities as part of the ANERIS project.

The Posidonia Green Festival featured a variety of activities focused on environmental awareness and sustainability. The full-day program included several citizen science activities, such as workshops for children and the Minka Biomarathon organized by ANERIS project and run by CSIC in collaboration with local marine biologists Barbara Pettinari and Pablo Cavanagh, and published in Focus Pico and Junior. Throughout the day, various activities and sporting events engaged participants in marine experiences. All activities adhere to strict ecological principles, including the elimination of single-use plastics and the use of local suppliers.

The day concluded with a talk titled “Can Science Save the Sea?” hosted by the Institute of Marine Sciences. The event featured three marine Biologists (Xavier Salvador Costa, Vanessa Sarah Salvo, and Arianna Liconti), the President of the Quinto al Mar delegation of FIPSAS, and Andrea Lamorte director of the environmental documentary “Playground” which premiered alongside live music performances.