Aenaos Thalassa seeks the active participation, meaningful involvement, fair treatment and inclusion of all local stakeholders affected by environmental policies. As such, it “invests” in actions that empower and engage local communities, with the aim of fostering acceptance, trust and, ultimately, active participation in a more sustainable way of life.
Educational Trip to Lyme Bay
In 2018, the organisation arranged a three-day educational trip to Lyme Bay in Dorset, England, with the participation of coastal fishermen from Alonissos, so that they could gain first-hand experience of the sustainable fishing and participatory governance model adopted by their English counterparts.
Fishermen’s Seminar
In January 2019, in collaboration with the environmental NGO ENALIA, a workshop was organised during which coastal fishermen from Alonissos were informed about the benefits of transitioning to fishing tourism and the relevant process. Four years later, Aenaos Thalassa organised and supported two participatory workshops for the coastal fishing community of Alonissos. The first aimed to record their needs and vision for the marine park, while the second focused on promoting corresponding solutions with the additional participation of key stakeholders. The main issues that emerged were the regulation of recreational fishing, the guarding of the Alonissos Marine Park – Northern Sporades, access to the market for local coastal fishermen, and better information for them on matters that affect them. On these specific issues, highly interesting proposals were put forward through brainstorming and constructive dialogue, such as the creation of a coastal fishermen’s cooperative to promote the market with certification of the origin of catches from the Alonissos Marine Park, strengthening the park’s surveillance with the involvement of coastal fishermen, collaboration with other fishing associations in Greece for an organised request to reinstate the recreational fishing licence under specific conditions, and direct communication to fishermen about available financial support.
Meeting of (Former) Management Bodies of Marine Protected Areas
From 30 September to 1 October 2019, a landmark two-day meeting for the country’s marine environment community was held in Alonissos. Specifically, representatives of Management Bodies from 11 Marine Protected Areas, accepting our invitation, had the opportunity to meet for the first time, to network and collaborate in mapping the current situation and common challenges, to exchange experiences and best practices, and above all to highlight prospects for cooperation and mutually beneficial actions. This two-day meeting, along with subsequent meetings with representatives of the remaining management bodies, yielded significant conclusions regarding the challenges faced by marine protected areas, which were incorporated into the update of environmental legislation in Greece in 2020.
Renovation of the Gerakas Research Centre
The Gerakas research centre, constructed decades ago, lies inactive in the northern part of Alonissos, having never operated or fulfilled its purpose. The Thalassa Foundation funded a series of actions, including a technical inspection of the building and an extensive feasibility study, in order to explore the prospect of renovating and operating the facility as a marine research institute hosting scientists and students from around the world.
The Foundation’s promotion of the site and the significant preparatory work it provided were drawn upon by NECCA (Natural Environment and Climate Change Agency), which secured funding of €3.5 million for the centre’s reoperation from the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF).
Renovation of the Gerakas Fishing Shelter
For many years, the fishing shelter at Gerakas was abandoned and non-operational. The Thalassa Foundation contributed to its renovation and it now serves fishermen who need to rest or take a short sleep during their work.
Donations
Donation of a Digital Dermatoscopy System
Aenaos Thalassa’s effort to create a model of harmonious coexistence between people and the environment is also reflected in activities that strengthen the sustainability of natural capital while improving the living conditions of Alonissos residents. In this context, it donated to the local community of Alonissos a digital dermatoscopy and mole mapping system for use in primary healthcare. This system has been developed and is supported by Althexis, and enables calibrated imaging, characterisation, monitoring, mapping and analysis of most skin conditions, such as moles, fungal infections, vitiligo, and others. The system allows for the safe and reliable communication of these examinations with dermatologists for the investigation of each case at the primary care level and, if necessary, referral for an in-person examination and/or biopsy. In addition, Aenaos Thalassa donated three portable defibrillators to the Skopelos Health Centre, also part of the Sporades archipelago.
Donation of a Surgical Suction Device
As part of its commitment to improving the daily lives of Alonissos residents, Aenaos Thalassa donated a surgical suction device to the municipal Dental Clinic. This initiative spares local residents from multiple trips to the nearby city of Volos for routine dental procedures such as fillings, tooth extractions, or scale removal.