HE SEA IS SUFFOCATING — HELP HER BREATHE AGAIN

1. Which areas have you cleaned so far? 

The first stop was Kythnos. We collected approximately 4 tons of waste, of which 64% was plastic. This was followed by Andros, where we collected a total of 5.2 tons of waste, with plastics accounting for 56%. 

2. Why did you choose to start this environmental initiative from Kythnos? 

WWF Greece has been active in Kythnos since 2017. Our goal is to inform, support, and collaborate with fishers so they can adopt sustainable practices in their work and improve their livelihoods. In this effort, we were supported by the Co-Management Committee of Coastal Fisheries of the Northern Cyclades, as well as all relevant fisheries stakeholders. Based on our strong collaboration with fishers and the support of the local community, we decided to expand our activities to address marine pollution from plastics and other waste, as studies show that the island of Kythnos is significantly affected by marine pollution. 

3. Where do the plastics collected from the seabed go and how will they be used? 

The aim is for them to be recycled and transformed into items that can be reused. 

4. Will there be more clean ups? What criteria will be used to select the next areas? 

Our goal is to carry out two major cleanup actions per year in ecologically important areas in Greece. The areas selected will be those important for biodiversity that are in critical condition due to marine pollution. Throughout the year, we conduct field assessments and collaborate with local communities to choose the next area to clean. 

5. You have collected 9.2 tons of waste from just two islands. What does this mean for our seas? 

Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental challenges facing Greece today, with an estimated 11,500 tons of plastic waste entering our seas every year. Our seas are quite literally suffocating under plastic, affecting marine life as well as human health. 

6. How does marine pollution affect local communities and fishers? 

Plastic waste on beaches and in marine waters significantly undermines Greece’s image as a clean and pristine destination, with direct impacts on the environment, economy, and society. It also greatly affects professional fishers, contributing to declining fish stocks and causing damage to fishing vessels (e.g. propeller damage) and equipment. For coastal communities that depend on fishing, this is not just an environmental issue—it is a threat to the local economy and to the preservation of a traditional way of life. 

7. Beyond seabed cleanups, will there be actions involving the local community and what will they include? 

The involvement of local communities in environmental protection actions is extremely important for the success of any effort. Our actions are always carried out with the support and involvement of the respective municipality, and we intend to invite local communities to participate whenever possible. Protecting nature cannot be achieved without cooperation with local communities. After all, they know better than anyone about the needs, characteristics, and challenges of their area. Their experience, knowledge, and active participation are essential in designing actions that are meaningful, feasible, and accepted by the local community. 

8. Can local communities (citizens, schools, associations) participate in the cleanups? 

Citizens cannot participate in underwater cleanup activities due to safety reasons; these operations are carried out by specialized professionals. However, in some cases, additional beach cleanups may take place. In those instances, we will inform local communities so that anyone interested can take part. 

9. What costs does my donation help cover? 

Your donation helps cover essential cleanup costs, as well as recycling and reuse actions for collected plastics. It also supports awareness-raising initiatives and community engagement activities, along with the development of a long-term operational framework for protecting our seas. 

10. What else does WWF Greece do regarding single-use plastics? 

Plastic pollution is a major threat to the environment, nature, and human health. At WWF, we highlight the issue and propose evidence-based solutions. We actively participate in the national policy dialogue to reduce single-use plastics and prevent plastic pollution. We are also part of the Circular Economy Committee established by the Ministry of Environment, aiming to reduce the environmental footprint of the Greek economy. At the same time, we engage with public authorities and stakeholders to promote better plastic waste management. The public can take part in awareness actions such as beach cleanups (Adopt a Beach), while campaigns like “Kapou Gopa” focus on raising awareness about cigarette butt pollution on beaches. We have also developed a Plastic Replacement and Recycling Guide, which includes information on common packaging materials used in over 130 food and everyday products, along with clear instructions for proper recycling. 

11. Will I receive updates about the progress of the initiative I support? 

Absolutely! You will receive detailed updates about our marine cleanup actions, as well as other important news about our environmental work. We will also regularly invite you to volunteer activities and events, and we would love to have you with us!