SEAMAR Project Launched to Protect Marine Ecosystems in Marmaris

The “Improving Marine Ecosystems and Enhancing Climate Resilience in Marmaris Project” (SEAMAR), co-financed by the European Union and the Republic of Türkiye, was introduced at a launch meeting hosted by Marmaris Municipality.

Implemented under the coordination of Marmaris Municipality in partnership with the Mediterranean Conservation Society and the Association for Development and Impact for the Future, the project aims to protect Marmaris’ marine ecosystems and strengthen the region’s resilience to climate change.

The launch meeting brought together representatives from public institutions, local authorities, civil society organizations, and project partners. During the event, attention was drawn to the impacts of increased erosion pressure on marine ecosystems following the forest fires that affected the region in 2021 and 2022.

Over the course of the 24-month project, activities will focus on:

• Reducing post-fire erosion risks,
• Enhancing the climate adaptation capacity of coastal ecosystems,
• Protecting the marine biodiversity of Marmaris.

The project will also include monitoring of Posidonia seagrass meadows, artificial reef applications, and biodiversity monitoring activities. In addition, training programs and citizen science initiatives will be implemented for fishers, tourism sector representatives, young people, women, and volunteers.

By supporting science-based conservation practices, the SEAMAR Project aims to strengthen the protection of marine ecosystems in Marmaris, promote the active participation of local stakeholders, and contribute to the development of more resilient coastal ecosystems in the face of climate change.