November 28, the date on which the Barcelona Convention, aimed at the conservation of species in the Mediterranean, was signed, is commemorated as Mediterranean Day. As we mark the 28th year of the convention's enforcement this year, have critical thresholds been crossed for the Mediterranean?
The Eastern Mediterranean, warming faster than other regions of the world, has already surpassed the maximum 1.5°C warming target set by the Paris Climate Agreement. The primary cause behind the climate imbalance we have experienced in recent years seems to be this. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (UN-FAO) states that nearly 90% of fish stocks in the Mediterranean are being consumed unsustainably. The warming of the waters, coupled with the increasing migration and pressure of invasive species, has brought small-scale fishing to the brink, especially along the coasts of Turkey. On the other hand, urbanization, pollution from maritime traffic, and the reality of plastic remain major problems still awaiting solutions. We believe that the days when this dark picture will brighten are not far away. Increased awareness has spurred many countries into urgent action. The success of Marine Protected Areas in preserving species and fish stocks is a significant driving force for the creation of new protected areas.
The Mediterranean, "Mare Nostrum" (our sea), is in need of protective hands and actions. For the continuation of vitality in the turquoise waters and the happiness it brings us...
Zafer Kızılkaya
Chairman of the Board
Mediterranean Conservation Society