The Challenge

Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows are among the Mediterranean’s most valuable ecosystems. They provide habitat for marine life, store carbon, stabilize coastlines, and help keep our waters healthy.

Yet these underwater forests are increasingly threatened by anchoring, pollution, and other human pressures. Despite their importance, many people are unaware that the meadows lying just beneath the sea surface are living ecosystems that need protection.

The Response

This project brings Posidonia conservation closer to local communities and visitors by combining science, education, art, and public engagement. Four bilingual educational panels will be installed in four bays in northern Kefalonia, where Posidonia meadows have been studied over the past years, sharing their ecological importance, local scientific findings, and simple actions visitors can take to reduce their impact.

At the same time, Kosamare will broaden the reach of its Posidonia Oceanica awareness programme beyond Fiskardo through its travelling exhibition “Through the Mirror” in addition to educational activities, engaging communities across Kefalonia and neighboring islands.

Continued mapping and monitoring of Posidonia meadows will help identify priority areas of North Kefalonia for future conservation, including locations where ecological moorings could reduce anchoring impacts.

The Outcomes

By combining research with creative public engagement, the project will increase understanding of Posidonia oceanica and encourage more responsible behaviour both on land and at sea. It will also strengthen the scientific knowledge needed to guide future conservation actions and help safeguard these vital underwater ecosystems.

A special thank you to Edmiston for supporting this project and helping protect the extraordinary marine ecosystems of the Ionian Islands.

About our Partner

Kosamare NGO is a marine conservation organisation based in Fiskardo, Kefalonia, dedicated to protecting the marine ecosystems of the region through scientific research, education, and community engagement. Working closely with local authorities, schools, dive centres, and environmental organisations, Kosamare connects people with the ocean and inspires collective action to protect it.

Photo Credits: Kosamare