SEALIFE: International Workshop in Otranto to Protect the Mediterranean Monk Seal
On 12 November 2026, Otranto will host an international workshop dedicated to the protection of the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), bringing together researchers, environmental institutions and marine conservation experts from Italy and Greece.
Organised by the Regional Natural Park Authority of Costa Otranto – Santa Maria di Leuca and Bosco di Tricase, in collaboration with ISPRA and ARPA Puglia, the workshop will begin at 9:15 a.m. as part of the SEALIFE project, co-funded by the Interreg VI-A Greece–Italy Programme 2021–2027.
- https://www.isprambiente.gov.it/en/news/sealife-international-workshop-in-otranto-to-protect-the-mediterranean-monk-seal
- SEALIFE: International Workshop in Otranto to Protect the Mediterranean Monk Seal
- 2026-11-12T00:00:00+01:00
- 2026-11-12T23:59:59+01:00
- On 12 November 2026, Otranto will host an international workshop dedicated to the protection of the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), bringing together researchers, environmental institutions and marine conservation experts from Italy and Greece. Organised by the Regional Natural Park Authority of Costa Otranto – Santa Maria di Leuca and Bosco di Tricase, in collaboration with ISPRA and ARPA Puglia, the workshop will begin at 9:15 a.m. as part of the SEALIFE project , co-funded by the Interreg VI-A Greece–Italy Programme 2021–2027.
- When Nov 12, 2026 (Europe/Berlin / UTC100)
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The meeting will provide an important opportunity to exchange and share scientific knowledge, monitoring methodologies and best practices for the protection of one of the Mediterranean's most threatened marine species.
The discussions will focus on the collection and validation of Mediterranean monk seal sighting reports, monitoring activities carried out in the Italian and Greek pilot areas, and the use of innovative techniques, including environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis, which can complement traditional methods for detecting the presence of the species.
The workshop will also highlight the importance of cross-border cooperation through contributions from the project partners, including Archipelagos – Environment and Development, which will present the activities carried out in the Greek pilot area.
A dedicated session will also explore the relationship between nautical tourism and marine conservation, featuring the experience of the Punta Campanella Marine Protected Area in promoting the sustainable use of coastal and marine environments.
By fostering dialogue between the scientific community, institutions and stakeholders involved in the management of protected areas, the workshop will help strengthen shared approaches to the protection of the Mediterranean monk seal and its habitats, turning cooperation between Italy and Greece into concrete conservation measures.
Participation is open to all interested parties, subject to prior online registration.