Posidonia oceanica meadow restoration in Bergeggi

Positive impact generated

Context

Posidonia oceanica is an endemic Mediterranean plant that forms vital underwater meadows. In Bergeggi, these meadows have been degraded by pollution and coastal development.

Posidonia oceanica meadows have declined sharply across the Mediterranean, with severe impacts also in the Bergeggi Marine Protected Area. Sensitive to water quality, the plant suffers in turbid conditions caused by waste discharge and pollution. The construction of ports and coastal infrastructure disrupts the seabed and smothers the meadow’s roots. Their loss drastically reduces marine biodiversity, depletes the seafloor, and weakens the natural protection of coastlines. Additionally, Posidonia acts as an effective “blue carbon sink,” capable of absorbing CO₂ and playing a key role in mitigating climate change.

Gallery

Blue Economy Posidonia Oceanica Italia Bergeggi 1 3x

Blue Economy Posidonia Oceanica Italia Bergeggi 2 3x

Blue Economy Posidonia Oceanica Italia Bergeggi 3 3x

Blue Economy Posidonia Oceanica Italia Bergeggi 4 3x

Blue Economy Posidonia Oceanica Italia Bergeggi 5 3x

Stakeholders and local partners

Who are the key stakeholders?

The project is coordinated by the Bergeggi Marine Protected Area with support from research institutes specializing in marine ecology and Italian universities. Key stakeholders include local authorities, diving centers, environmental organizations, and the coastal community, which directly benefits from the protection of marine ecosystems. Awareness, monitoring, and outreach programs engage schools, tourism operators, and local residents to promote best practices in conservation. By fostering collaboration between scientific institutions and local communities, the project takes an integrated approach that combines ecological restoration with the enhancement of natural and tourism heritage, delivering environmental, social, and economic benefits across the Ligurian region.

Project Developer:

Objectives and approach

The project aims to strengthen the resilience of the marine ecosystem by restoring the Posidonia oceanica meadow in Bergeggi, enhancing biodiversity, protecting coastlines, and absorbing CO₂.

The main objectives of the project are: to restore 100 m² of seafloor through Posidonia oceanica transplants; increase biodiversity such that the area hosts up to 25% of Mediterranean species; enhance ecosystem services, including coastal protection, water filtration, and carbon storage; raise awareness among local communities and stakeholders about the value of seagrass meadows; develop a replicable model for ecological restoration along Mediterranean coasts; and contribute to global goals for marine conservation and climate change mitigation.

The project involves planting Posidonia oceanica cuttings on biodegradable coconut fiber mats (biomat R.E.C.S.®). This technique promotes the establishment and growth of the plants on dead meadows, an ideal substrate for rooting. The process includes careful selection of both the donor and recipient sites, transplantation, continuous monitoring, and evaluation of results. The approach is scientifically validated and complemented by community awareness activities. The goal is to ensure a long-lasting and replicable restoration, combining technical innovation with social participation to protect the Ligurian Sea.