The Special Environmental Studies (SEAs) 8A and 8B for the areas of the Natura 2000 network of the South Aegean, paving the way for the completion of the institutionalisation of the National Marine Park South Aegean 1 – Southern Cyclades.

With these new studies, the EIAs required for the draft Presidential Decree are completed, while they also cover the land areas of the larger islands of the Park that are included in the Natura 2000 Network and were pending, following the approval, at the end of 2025, of the EIA for the marine part of the Park. Their approval contributes to the effective protection of the Cyclades and part of the Dodecanese islands and the integrated protection of their unique natural wealth.

Thus, for the first time, a clear, coherent and modern framework of rules for the protected areas in the whole of the Cyclades, part of the Dodecanese and the islands of Falconera and Velopoula in the Myrtoo Sea. At the same time, the overall planning for the protection of the marine and island area of the South Aegean is being strengthened.

Through the EAPs are defined:

● Protection zones,
● permitted land uses and activities,
● management and protection measures, with the aim of preserving ecosystems and compatibility with moderate human activities.

The individual protection objectives include:

● Conservation of elements of the natural environment that are unique at the international, national and local levels,
● the preservation of elements of the man-made environment that define the historical identity of the area,
● to support the development of soft human activities compatible with the protection of the natural and cultural heritage,
● the country’s response to its EU commitments for the protection of the natural environment.

The studies place particular emphasis on the protection of important endangered species, such as the Mediterranean seal, cetaceans and sea turtles, as well as birds and endemic species of the islands. At the same time, sensitive habitat types are protected, with emphasis on the Poseidonia seagrass meadows, while the high ecological and biogeographical value of the island complex of the Aegean Archipelago is recognised. The studies recognise the special character of island regions and seek the necessary balance between environmental protection and sustainable development.

In this context, traditional uses such as agriculture, livestock, beekeeping and fishing are maintained and supported, under conditions and arrangements that ensure the conservation of the landscape and biodiversity.

Of particular importance is the recognition and protection of the rural character of the islands and the traditional island landscape. The maintenance, restoration and recultivation of traditional terraces and other rural buildings and elements of the rural landscape is allowed, using local materials and respecting the architectural character of each area.

The new regulations also set clear conditions and restrictions in relation to tourism activities and uses, with the aim of protecting and preserving the important ecosystems and species found in both coastal and terrestrial areas. The tourism character of the islands is recognised, but its development is now subject to a clear framework of rules to ensure that it is compatible with the carrying capacity of the areas and the requirements of the protection of the natural environment.

Particular attention is also given to regulating the movement and anchoring of boats, with a view to protecting, in particular, the Poseidonia sea meadows. In this context, it is planned to gradually place anchorages that are friendly to the Poseidonia, in locations to be specified in the relevant Management Plans.

OPs 8A and 8B also take into account insularity as a critical planning factor. They recognise the specificities of islands, infrastructure needs, connectivity difficulties, but also the importance of the local economy and quality of life of the inhabitants. In this way, a development pattern compatible with the specific characteristics of island regions is formed and the necessary legal certainty for permitted activities is strengthened.

The completion of OPs 8A and 8B:

● enhances the protection of the natural heritage of the Cyclades and the South Aegean,
● provides a clear and comprehensive framework for permitted uses and activities,
● contributes to sustainable development and the balance between the environment, local society and the economy.

With the approval of these two studies, the Ministry of Environment and Energy, implementing the relevant commitment of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis for the creation of two National Marine Parks in South Aegean-South Cyclades and Ionian Sea, is making a decisive step towards the substantial protection of the protected areas of the South Aegean, ensuring that nature protection will be a stable pillar for the future of the islands and their local communities. In this way, we place Greece at the forefront of the protection of the marine environment throughout Europe.