Challenge

Marine biodiversity in the Aegean Sea is under increasing pressure from pollution, invasive species, climate change, and habitat degradation. Public awareness of these threats remains limited, and there is a need to bridge the gap between scientific research and community engagement. At the same time, Türkiye’s rich maritime history — including the legacy of Ottoman cartographer Pîrî Reis — offers an inspiring entry point for education and conservation outreach.

Solution

Led by the Turkish Marine Research Foundation (TÜDAV), this project will retrace the Aegean route charted by Pîrî Reis through a scientific research voyage aboard the TÜDAV MARU vessel. By combining environmental monitoring with public engagement at key ports, the project aims to increase marine literacy, raise awareness about threats to marine ecosystems, and encourage collective action for conservation. A final event titled “Mavi Buluşma” (Blue Gathering) will unite scientists, local authorities, and civil society actors to share insights and foster blue partnerships.

 Project Deliverables

• Between July and September 2025, TÜDAV MARU will follow the Gelibolu–Çeşme coastal route, conducting marine biodiversity and pollution monitoring through visual observations and sampling (including marine mammals, plankton, invertebrates, and floating debris).
• At ports such as Bozcaada, Gökçeada, Foça, Karaburun, and Alaçatı, awareness events will present Pîrî Reis’s maritime legacy and offer talks on marine conservation to at least 50 local participants per stop.
• The journey will culminate in “Blue Gathering”, a final event in Çeşme that brings together local governments, media, and NGOs to discuss outcomes, share scientific data, and promote cross-sector collaboration for protecting Aegean ecosystems.

 

About the organisation

For over 25 years, the Turkish Marine Research Foundation (TUDAV) has been dedicated to protecting the seas of Türkiye and the world through continuous research and conservation activities.  Since 2022, TUDAV has been offering free, online Marine Literacy Courses in collaboration with the International Ocean Institute (IOI). These courses aim to bridge the gap between scientists and the public, equip individuals with the knowledge to make informed observations, and foster social solidarity around marine conservation and sustainability.