Posted on March, 05 2025

This program was designed and implemented using innovative practices, involving various stakeholders and organizations. These efforts enriched scientific knowledge through field research, shaped the legal framework for the area’s protection, and ultimately led to its official designation as a Marine Protected Area (MPA) in 2019.

Since then, up to the present (2024), various projects and actions have been carried out, addressing not only biodiversity but also cultural aspects and the “connection” of Gyaros with the neighboring islands of Syros and Andros.

However, what have been the environmental, socio-economic, and administrative impacts of the establishment and operation of the Gyaros MPA?

WWF Greece, in collaboration with the consulting company OIKOM Ltd, recently undertook an assessment of the actions implemented between 2013 and 2024 in the Gyaros MPA. The evaluation focused on assessing the impact of the establishment and management of the MPA on biodiversity, fish populations, governance/surveillance, and public consultation/environmental awareness. The goal was to extract valuable insights to ensure the effective management of the area in the future, highlighting strengths, identifying gaps, and pinpointing areas for improvement.

The evaluation study was based on internationally recognized tools and incorporated well established methodologies for assessing the impacts of plans and programs (Strategic Environmental Impact Assessment) as well as for evaluating the effectiveness of specific actions (Monitoring Indicators). The methodological approach was informed by global best practices but was adapted to the specific needs of the Gyaros MPA, ensuring a comprehensive and robust assessment by comparing the situation in 2013 with that in 2024, with an emphasis on applied management.

To develop a well-documented and comprehensive view of both the positive and negative impacts of the MPA, data was collected from over 55 research projects, scientific publications, and technical reports stemming from numerous conservation and management actions. The combination of these data sources ensured a well-rounded and evidence-based foundation for analyzing the effectiveness of the MPA’s operation, strengthening the objectivity of the study’s conclusions.

Key Findings

The conclusions drawn from the evaluation were numerous and valuable. First, it is important to focus on the positive impacts of establishing and operating the Gyaros MPA, which include:

1. Biodiversity Protection: The MPA has contributed to the preservation of significant habitat types and species, such as Posidonia seagrass meadows and the Mediterranean monk seal. Restrictions on fishing activities and on access have reduced human-induced pressures, creating favorable conditions for the natural recovery of habitats and strengthening environmental balance. The stability or increase in certain species populations indicates the success of this approach.
2. Advancement of Scientific Knowledge: Field research and continuous monitoring of habitat types and species have significantly improved knowledge of the flora, fauna, and the overall ecosystems of Gyaros.
3. Promotion of Cultural and Natural Heritage: The designation of the area as an MPA has helped to also highlight its cultural and natural heritage, reinforcing Gyaros’s identity as a site of high ecological and historical value.
4. Boosting the Local Economy: Despite the fishing ban within the MPA, the recovery of marine stocks has had secondary positive effects on neighboring areas, creating new opportunities for sustainable fishing activities.
5. Collaboration and Consultation with Stakeholders and the Local Community: The establishment of the Gyaros Co-Management Committee in 2016 facilitated cooperation, dialogue, and consensus in decision-making, strengthening governance.
6. Education and Awareness: Involvement of the local community through educational programs and collaborations with environmental organizations has increased awareness and support for conservation efforts. This has helped build human capital that supports the MPA’s operation and management.
7. Enhanced Surveillance and Protection: The use of advanced technologies, including remote monitoring systems with radar and thermal cameras, has improved protection, reducing illegal activities. Additionally, collaboration with the Hellenic Coast Guard and the Natural Environment & Climate Change Agency (NECCA) ensures the long-term effective enforcement of protective measures.
8. Recognition and International Promotion: The Gyaros MPA has been recognized as a model of management at both national and international levels, attracting interest from the scientific community and environmental organizations. It also lays the groundwork for similar conservation initiatives in other areas.

Challenges and Areas for Improvement

Despite its successes, there is still room for improvement in the management of the Gayros MPA. Specifically:

• Governance Challenges: Delays in issuing a Presidential Decree for the long-term legal protection of the MPA, the lack of an approved Management Plan, and the absence of a comprehensive Marine Spatial Planning framework pose significant obstacles to the effective and sustainable management of the MPA.
• Restoration Actions: While the foundations for management have been laid, targeted restoration actions for specific habitats or species remain limited. For example, the installation of mooring systems to protect Posidonia seagrass meadows is still pending.
• Economic Challenges: Although the restrictions have helped biodiversity conservation, reduced fishing activity has raised concerns among some professional fishers who have not yet experienced direct economic benefits.

The Role of the CYCLADES Life Project

Among the various initiatives undertaken, the successful implementation of the CYCLADES Life project played a crucial role. This project set the foundation for the institutional recognition of the Gyaros MPA, ensuring effective habitat and species protection. It also developed a comprehensive approach to the management and promotion of the area.

Overall Assessment

A key conclusion from the OIKOM Ltd evaluation study encapsulates the overall impact of the Gyaros MPA:

"The Gyaros MPA is an outstanding example of an initiative that began with the vision and dedication of an environmental organization and is now evolving into a model for managing a marine protected area under the responsibility of central governance."

The "Assessment Study of the Impacts of the Gyaros MPA" was conducted by OIKOM Ltd on behalf of WWF Greece as part of the program "Mainstreaming Best Practices and Lessons Learned from the Gyaros MPA within the National MPA System of Greece."

This program aims to contribute to the development of a well-integrated network of effectively managed MPAs in Greece. By drawing valuable insights and compiling best practices from the design, establishment, and management of the Gyaros MPA, WWF Greece intends to support and contribute to the improvement of the effective management in both existing MPAs and future ones at a national level.

The project benefits from the support of the Monk Seal Alliance (https://www.monksealalliance.org).