Restoration
Mare Nostrum project
This Mediterranean sailing expedition, part of the Guardians of Gaia initiative, brings together a team of students and researchers from multiple disciplines and nationalities. With stops in around fifteen countries, participants collaborate with local populations to develop and strengthen conservation and monitoring programs while cleaning up maritime and coastal areas.
Mare Nostrum: A Journey to Protect the Mediterranean
The Mediterranean’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage are under threat from pollution, overfishing, and climate change. Gaia First’s Mare Nostrum initiative addresses these challenges through community-led conservation, sustainable solutions, and education.
As part of Gaia First’s Guardians of Gaia program, Mare Nostrum hosts two annual 3-week journeys aboard a sailing boat. Groups of 10–12 university students from across the Mediterranean collaborate with local communities to develop conservation strategies, learning about marine biodiversity, local economies, and traditional ecological knowledge. Through stops in 15 countries, their mission is to prioritize and support local needs.
Central to the mission is the empowerment of Indigenous and Community Conserved Areas (ICCAs), vital to biodiversity.
Mare Nostrum works to document conservation practices via the Earth Twin Platform, adapt Marine Protected Areas to local needs, and amplify the voices of local communities.
Mare Nostrum is a collaborative movement uniting students, scientists, and communities to restore ecosystems and protect the Mediterranean for future generations.
Join and Support This Unique Program to be
Launched in August 2025 !
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Foster Dialogue and Partnership: Students and mentors collaborate with local communities, offering tailored support where requested.
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Learn Through Action: Participants engage in marine observations and workshops to co-create conservation strategies.
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Adopt a Multidisciplinary Approach: Education spans through marine biodiversity, circular economy, conservation science, and traditional ecological knowledge, preparing participants to address complex challenges and develop ongoing projects.