Our organization has operated in several areas of Greece where abandoned fish farms are located. With great regret, we find that our findings and conclusions are always the same: the seabed is destroyed and control procedures and accountability are nonexistent. There is no justification for rewarding arbitrariness and allowing the continuation of such practices that degrade the marine and coastal environment of our country to such an extent.
It is characteristic that owners of aquaculture units who have discarded their equipment on the seabed of an area and face fines are nonetheless granted licenses to operate new aquaculture units in other areas.
In this context, we call on the competent authorities to finally establish a clear legislative framework for the restoration and protection of areas hosting aquaculture units. It is time for the Greek state to align itself with European guidelines in terms of consultation, restoration, spatial planning and environmental management.
We also raised the issue with Mr. Kyriazopoulos, Secretary General for Ports, Port Policies and Shipping Investments at the Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy, who showed full understanding of the extent of the problem. Aegean Rebreath is expected to undertake related initiatives in order to highlight this major issue found in many regions of Greece.
