General context
The National Marine Park of Zakynthos, Greece, is situated in the southern-most part of the island, in Laganas Bay. It is the first fully-established National Park in Greece to have integrated management status with the objective of sustainable development.
The area has suffered for a long period of time from uncontrolled human development, building up pressure on the natural ecosystem and putting in danger the local flora and fauna, especially the loggerhead sea turtles.
Project objectives
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to incorporate sustainable development principles in economic and social activities / functions;
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to protect the environment within the NMPZ using "on site" actions, and to ensure minimal disturbance to the species and habitats;
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to promote the idea of integrated coastal zone management and sustainable development, through local initiatives, amongst the people who are economically active in any sector in the area;
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to inform people living on the island about the values of the environment and their protection through integrated management and participation;
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to ensure that visitors to the area are correctly informed about the importance of natural habitats;
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to provide the necessary "on site" demonstration and guidance facilities that will help both the local population and visitors participate in the active management and protection of the area.
Main tasks
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Collaboration and involvement of local stakeholders in accordance to the National Marine Park objectives;
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Environmental management and protection in the area of the NMPZ;
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Upgrading, promotion and exploitation of the environment actions;
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International cooperation with other Marine Parks seeking transfer of know-how and common problem solutions with reference to ICZM;
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Programme management;
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Monitoring and evaluation system of the management agency of NMPZ;