South Aegean
Empower BLUE AEGEAN
The South Aegean Region encompasses the Cyclades and Dodecanese islands complex in the central and south-eastern Aegean Sea and has a unique marine and coastal ecosystem. the South Aegean Region’s participation in the A-AAgora project as an associated region would likely extend these objectives and values into a new context that seek to exemplify sustainable development, balancing environmental and cultural preservation with economic growth and community well-being. The two main reasons for taking part in AAGORA as AR are: 1. Enhance Regional Development: Further promote sustainable development within the region by applying innovative approaches learned from previous projects to address any specific goals of the A-AAgora project. 2. Expand Partnerships and Networking: Collaborate with other regions, organizations, and stakeholders within the A-AAgora project to exchange knowledge, share best practices and strengthen connections that could lead to future cooperative endeavors.
Leveraging the insights and achievements from A-AAGORA project demos, the South Aegean Region can embrace a valuable environmental and community development opportunity. These demonstrations showcase innovative strategies in ecosystem restoration, pollution reduction and sustainable economic practices, offering a blueprint for local application. By participating in A-AAGORA, the region can enhance capacity building and community engagement, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship and collaboration that benefits both the natural landscape and the local economy.
The pilot action will take place in Rhodes, on the island’s remote western side lies Blutopia Marine Park P.C, a renowned diving center offering captivating Scuba diving and Snorkeling tours within the pristine confines of a NATURA 2000 site. These two enterprises have forged a partnership aimed at facilitating Marine Biology Tours around the vicinity of LAMAR S.A fish farm. Led by experienced Marine Biologists, these guided tours are designed to enlighten and inspire visitors of all ages about the imperative role of aquaculture within the European Union and the broader Mediterranean ecosystem.
The tours delve into the significance of aquaculture, the services it provides, as well as the existing threats and opportunities it faces.Moreover, these immersive tours offer participants the opportunity to engage in physical and experiential activities, allowing them to delve into the rich biodiversity flourishing outside the boundaries of the fish farm. From encountering playful dolphins to witnessing vast schools of fish, participants are immersed in the dynamic environment fostered by the farm’s protected nature and unique ecological conditions. The fusion of tourism and aquaculture initially emerged as a means to showcase the captivating aspects of aquaculture to the public. Over time, it has evolved into a robust business model, enriching LAMAR’s production portfolio. This multi-use paradigm not only enables Blutopia to provide internships, training, and education opportunities to young students but also ensures economic stability for LAMAR, enabling the recruitment of experienced and highly skilled personnel to advance, explore, and refine this innovative approach.
Activities
Team member
Savvas Chatzinikolaou
Aquaculture Consultant, CEO of Blutopia Marine Park P.C
Irini Barianaki
EU Project Manager, Planner
Eleftheria Nikitara
Project Manager
Tasos Baltadakis
Responsible for the Applocation pilot Ph.D. in Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture & Scientific manager of Blutopia Marine Park P.C