Who are We ?

The Mediterranean Conservation Society was founded in Izmir in 2012 as a nationwide non-profit organisation. Our work focuses primarily on endangered species such as the Mediterranean Monk Seal and the Sandbar Shark, and the monitoring and restoration of the marine ecosystems in which they live. We contribute to the protection of the species and ecosystems, as well as ensuring the continued existence of traditional shore fishing and those who make a living from it.

Mission

Carrying out science-based projects to raise awareness of and protect the biodiversity, ecosystem and cultural heritage of the Mediterranean.

Vision

Working towards a Mediterranean ecosystem where all living beings coexist in harmony and balance.

Values

Science based

We use science and nature-based solutions to ensure habitats and species can sustain their lives and to increase their resistance to the effects of climate change.

Inclusion

We share responsibility with every person and institution we can meet on the common ground of nature conservation, act together with local stakeholders, and establish national and international collaborations with expert institutions and individuals.

Harmony

We work to preserve biodiversity while prioritizing the economic and cultural needs of local communities, supporting the sustainable use of resources in harmony with nature.

Transparency

We share the processes and results of our work with our members, volunteers and donors; we accept responsibility to present all concrete outputs from our research and activities to the public.

Equity and Respect

Just as we respect diversity in nature, we ensure there is no room for discrimination in our organizational culture or the programs we implement.

Our Strategy

Conserving Biodiversity

Identifying threats to biological diversity from climate change and human activities, the Mediterranean Conservation Society aims to conserve and enhance the populations and habitats of targeted species.

Strengthening the Network of Marine Protected Areas

Supporting the increase of scientifically determined and ecologically connected, ideally-sized Marine Protected Areas, ensuring their complete and effective protection; integrating these conservation methods into existing/new Marine Protected Areas.

Removal of Non-Indigenous Species from the Seas

Monitoring of non-indigenous marine species appearing in the Mediterranean, assessing their impacts. For edible species among these, transferring the market created over the past 10 years by MCS to Small-Scale Fishers Cooperatives and market actors.

Supporting Cultural Heritage

Many recent discoveries that are in close proximity to our MPAs including Early Bronze Age and Hellenistic period wreck excavations are supported due to the strong cultural connection.

Sharing Responsibility of Nature Conservation

Creating awareness for our stakeholders while supporting the livelihood of communities where conservation activities take place.
We respect the distinct knowledge, experience, and choices of all groups and individuals with whom we collaborate and share what we know about nature.

Awards

2012
Marine Preservation Leader Prize, Marsh Award, UK
2013
Whitley Nature Preservation Prize, UK
2014
UNDP Equator Prize, USA
2017
Whitley Nature Preservation Gold Prize, UK
2017
Sabancı Foundation Differentiators Award, Istanbul
2022
Marsh Charitable Trust Marine Conservation Leadership Award, UK
2023
Goldman Environmental Award, USA

Founders

Ayşegül DİNÇKÖK
Can GÖRGÜN
Caroline KOÇ
Deniz KARAMANOĞLU SARAL
Derin KARAMANOĞLU
Derya YILDIRIM
Ercüment ALTINSOY
Güngör MUHTAROĞLU
Hakan Hamdi BULGURLU
Haluk KARAMANOĞLU
Huriye GÖNCÜOĞLU
Kenan YILMAZ
Mustafa KOÇ
Özkan ANIL
Serdar CÜMBÜŞ
Vahdet ÜNAL
Volkan HÜRSEVER
Zafer A. KIZILKAYA
Zafer TOSUNOĞLU
Zeynep MUFTİ

Statute

Mediterranean Conservation Society Statute

Introduction

Mediterranean Conservation Society Introductory File