We are proud to announce that Zafer Kızılkaya, President of the Board of the Mediterranean Conservation Society, has been awarded the 2025 Mediterranean Protector Award by Bluewave Alliance for his dedicated efforts in enhancing the effectiveness of marine protected areas in the Mediterranean, promoting sustainable fishing practices, and working collaboratively with local communities to protect nature.
This prestigious award was presented to Zafer Kızılkaya on June 3, 2025, during a special ceremony held at Port Olímpic in Barcelona. This recognition not only honors his individual contributions but also reflects the international appreciation of the collective efforts of our team at the Mediterranean Conservation Society, our local partners, and all the communities we collaborate with in the field.
This year, two other inspiring individuals were also honored with the award:
- Dr. Marta Estrada, for her pioneering research on phytoplankton and its vital contributions to ocean health,
- Olivia Mandle Navarro, for her unwavering environmental commitment and impactful awareness-raising actions at a remarkably young age.
Bluewave Alliance is an international initiative dedicated to the protection of marine ecosystems, the promotion of sustainable ocean policies, and the recognition of inspiring leadership. By bringing together actors from various sectors, it aims to build a global network of collaboration for ocean conservation.
The Bluewave Days event is an integral part of this mission—creating space for changemakers in marine conservation to come together, share experiences, and amplify inspirational stories.
This award is a reflection of every step taken to protect nature, every partnership built at the local level, and every ounce of effort contributed. Together, we continue to protect our seas.
We wholeheartedly congratulate Zafer Kızılkaya and all the award recipients!