The Posidonia littoral zone (Posidonia-beach-dune system) is a valuable natural asset affected by a variety of impacts and pressures. Drifting vegetation of Posidonia forming banquettes along the beaches is a common feature of many coasts. However, residues of seagrass Posidonia oceanica beached in tourist zones represent often a problem in the Mediterranean. Surveys conducted in the previous initiative POSBEMED (2016-2018) funded by the Interreg Mediterranean programme highlighted the need to promote better management of the Posidonia littoral landscape and banquettes on beaches thru the entire Mediterranean coast. Data gathered about beach management practices revealed that 83% of the surveyed local authorities remove seagrass deposits and banquettes every year on some or all the beaches, including protected areas.

Main objective

Based on the findings of the previous project, the objective of POSBEMED2 is to catalyse its results to manage the Mediterranean coastline by developing planning strategies that recognize the value of the Posidonia beach-dune environment and integrate them into the overall coastal strategy, while also addressing concerns and educating stakeholders. It further addresses key knowledge gaps, providing information that will enhance management decisions on adaptation, policies, planning and promotion in Protected Areas.

Objectives and Outcomes

The main objectives are:

1. Implement a local framework for decision making for Posidonia banquettes testing different approaches and tools
2. Increase awareness to build stakeholder support for more nature-oriented management strategies
3. Provide better integration planning tools to be incorporated into management planning and coastal policies

The main outcomes that partners with the support of associated partners agree to deliver are:

• Integrated and transferable methodology and toolbox for Posiconia beach management in protected areas (PAs)
• Set of policy recommendations and tools for integrated management of Posidonia littoral zone in protected areas.
• Joint Charter of Commitment for Mediterranean Municipalities
• Action framework plan for Posidonia coastal zone at 8 protected areas
• Transferability of knowledge and stakeholder engagement on good practices for PA’s effectiveness enhanced.