Coastal protection in the Greek islands

On this environmental protection mission as part of an ecotourism experience in Greece, we study underwater seagrass meadows and the sand dunes of southeastern Kefalonia. We focus on the coastal and nearshore marine area of the Mounda Peninsula.

Underwater seagrass meadows are an important carbon sink and play a key role in the fight against climate change. They form a vital ecosystem, providing habitats and breeding grounds for many marine animals and organisms. Sand dunes and their vegetation act as a dynamic barrier between sea and land and represent a specialized ecosystem that is affected by development and accelerated erosion.

The coastal and marine study areas are mapped at regular intervals using drones, allowing researchers to study the ecosystem and monitor changes over time. Volunteers taking part in ecotourism in Greece do not need prior drone skills, but they will have the opportunity to learn how drones are used in environmental science. Aerial surveys over the sea will help locate seagrass meadows and plan snorkeling expeditions.

Diving teams study the coastal area to collect geolocated photographs of seagrass meadows. These are then analyzed to identify species, seagrass types, their current condition, and how they change over time.

Some teams focus on the collection of waste for recycling or proper disposal.

Volunteers will contribute their time and skills to help collect vital data and support essential marine conservation work, while also gaining a better understanding of how marine ecosystems are affected by direct human activities and climate change. The data collected through this ecotourism project in Greece will help create one of the most detailed datasets on the region’s coastal and marine ecosystems.

Conservation project in Svoronata

In addition to our programme in Kefalonia, we also offer a similar project in Svoronata, giving volunteers a rewarding experience in another part of the island.

The Svoronata field station stands out in several unique ways. Located closer to the capital, Argostoli, this station provides easier access to urban amenities while remaining just as close to beaches and local restaurants. Svoronata also differs in terms of transportation, as it does not offer bicycles like Skala, but it does provide opportunities to carry out coastal bird surveys, a unique activity at this station. In addition, the Svoronata station remains operational until October, offering a longer window to take part in this environmental conservation project.

Both stations therefore offer varied and complementary opportunities for ecotourists committed to protecting Greece’s marine and coastal ecosystems.

For more information, please contact us.