Ecology

The National Marine Park of Zakynthos (NMPZ) was established by Presidential Decree in December 1999. Within its territory one encounters one the most dense nesting beaches of the loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta in the Mediterranean, a habitat essential for protection. Ôhis includes a total of 36 klm² of terrestrial territory and another 90 klm² of marine area.

The Marine Park's objectives are to preserve the vast natural heritage and conserve the ecological balance of the marine and coastal area it surrounds, including the islets of Laganas Bay (Marathonisi and Pelouzo) and the Islets of Strophadia. Furthermore, the Management Agency of the Park aims to develop activities harmonized with the protection of nature and landscape in the wider area of Zakynthos.

Objectives of the Management Agency of the NMPZ is the protection and conservation of:

• The most important nesting beaches of the loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta.

• Habitats and the Mediterranean monk seal Monachus monachus population

• Habitats of protected avifauna and in particular the migrant birds.

• Native flora habitats.

• Coastal and marine habitat types of European and Mediterranean importance.

• Fishery resources and generally the marine ecosystem, both from sea activities and pollution.

Also, the objectives include the development of activities, compatible with the above, such as:

• Tourism and recreation in accordance with the principles of sustainability.

• Environmental education - information and awareness on naturalist public activities.

• The preservation of traditional uses (fishing, grazing, agriculture, etc.).

• The preservation of the natural and cultural landscape.

The National Marine Park of Zakynthos was the first legislated Protected Area in Greece managed by a Management Agency and it serves as an example for other regions of Greece that require comprehensive management.