January’s last weekend has been both extremely difficult and quite fruitful as the boat itineraries posed numerous obstacles to our visit to Santoniri and Anafi. Nevertheless, we had the chance to establish our cooperation with both islands and plan a series of essential forthcoming activities.
Our trip agenda started with a meeting at the Municipality of Thira with representatives of both the Municipality and the Municipal Port Fund of Thira. There, we had the chance to discuss over the environmental challenges of the island and agree on a timeplan for the establishment of two Marine Litter Collection Stations at the fishing harbours of Vlychada and Monolithos, as well as several activities that will be performed on the island. The meeting was sealed with signing a memorandum of cooperation by which Santorini is now a proud part of Aegean Rebreath’s network.
During our short stay on Santorini we also inspected the special fishing gear collection bins, established during the past year by our team, visited all fishing ports of the island and had some very insightful discussions with the Professional Fishermen Association of Thira. The fishing community of Santorini, that has proved extremely active in the collection of the fishing gear in the designated bins, was especially fond of the upcoming establishment of the Marine Litter Collection Stations on the fishing harbours and reassured us that they will fully support this endeavour.
Despite the harsh weather conditions and the anti-COVID-19 protection measures, we managed to reach the island of Anafi, where we received a warm welcome from the president of Antiparos’ Fishing Association. He was the man that convinced the fishing communities of both Santorini and Anafi to join our network.
Santorini and Anafi are the fifth and sixth island in the Cyclades that participate in this revolutionary initiative which continues with the support for Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) and stipulates the realization of multiple activities and interventions that have a sole aim: the emergence and treatment of the severe issue of marine litter. And we are thrilled to count a total of 12 islands in our Marine Litter Collection Stations’ project within a few months.
The first national network for handling marine litter has come into existence!
