In this meeting held on March 20, among the shared objectives, the need to strengthen cooperation and harmonize practices related to navigation, ecosystem protection, and maritime regulation stood out. At a time when marine ecosystem conservation is becoming a global priority, the cross-border ports of the Mediterranean are taking a step toward more sustainable and coordinated maritime management. Among the recently highlighted goals, the importance of consolidating cooperation between territories and unifying practices in navigation, ecosystem protection, and maritime regulation within marine natural parks is particularly emphasized.

Need for harmonization between marine natural parks

One of the main challenges is the coordination between the various marine natural parks in the region, such as the Gulf of Lion Marine Natural Park, the Montgrí, Medes Islands and Baix Ter Natural Park, and the Cap de Creus Natural Park. The goal is to identify key stakeholders and establish concrete objectives to enable better coordination between these protected areas. This harmonization aims to facilitate shared and coherent management, while strengthening the protection of the marine environment and the safety of navigation.

Ecosystem preservation: a participatory scientific approach

The conservation of marine ecosystems requires constant monitoring and the active involvement of all stakeholders. That is why a participatory scientific approach is being considered to effectively monitor invasive species. This methodology would involve collaboration between researchers, park managers, and marine environment users, promoting real-time data collection and shared analysis in order to make informed decisions.

A common document for marine park users

In order to facilitate the understanding and application of regulations, a clear and accessible summary of the rules in force in the various marine natural parks is proposed. This document will serve as a practical tool for users — whether fishers, navigators, or tourists — and will help promote best practices within protected areas, thus contributing to the preservation of the Mediterranean’s ecological balance.

Navigation and regulation: common rules to protect

Navigation within marine natural parks is one of the key aspects that must be jointly regulated. Harmonizing elements such as access to protected areas, navigation speed, fishing practices, and safety measures is essential to reduce human impact and ensure the protection of marine ecosystems. It also allows for a safer and more consistent experience for navigators, who often travel between different regulated areas.

A european opportunity: cross-border cooperation

This project represents a remarkable opportunity to build exemplary cross-border cooperation, not only between different marine natural parks, but also between countries that share a common vision of sustainability and marine environment protection. The development of this collaborative framework could become a model for other regions in Europe, encouraging more effective and unified environmental policies along the Mediterranean coast.

A first project with concrete actions

This move toward more integrated management is not just a statement of intent: an initial structuring project is already underway, with concrete actions and the direct involvement of key local stakeholders. Among the participants in the coordination meetings are notable figures such as Serge Pallarès (Occitania), Eugeni Figa (Estartit), Ponç Feliu (Cape Creus), Raimon Roca (La Escala), Domènec Gómez (Port de la Selva), Hervé Magnini (Gulf of Lion), and Adriana Purroy (Cape Creus).

A shared future for the mediterranean

The ports and marine natural parks of the Catalan and French coast are moving forward together toward a sustainable and harmonious model of maritime management. This collective effort strengthens the protection of Mediterranean marine ecosystems and shows that cross-border cooperation is essential to meet the environmental challenges of the future.