The aim of the Green Light protocol is to accelerate the ecological restoration movement in the Mediterranean by supporting local organizations through the multiple steps of a restoration project, from initiating dialogue between stakeholders, to developing action proposals, and raising funds. Ecological restoration is instrumental in reversing biodiversity loss, addressing climate change, and improving community well-being. However, finding suitable sites, feasible projects and local managers can be a challenge.
For this reason, the Alliance has developed the Green Light Protocol as a tool to overcome these obstacles. In order to successfully restore a site, a network of experts and stakeholders needs to be created to gather data and develop an appropriate response that will allow for restoration and the necessary changes to be made.
In September, as representatives of MAW secretariat, the Tour du Valat team organized a field visit to the Gökçe wetland, Türkiye, in coordination with the Mediterranean Conservation Society (AKD). This marked the first steps for developing a strategy for the Green Light Protocol’s first pilot site.
The Green Light Protocol method
The method adopted by the Alliance throughout this process harnesses the power of images to promote a joint vision of wetland restoration. By collaborating with a landscape architect, the restoration process begins with designing the potential future landscape, offering stakeholders and partners alike a clear and visible goal to work towards. The design takes into account not only biodiversity but also human activity, offering a solution that is both environmentally and economically sustainable for the surrounding community. For more information
The Alliance visited the Gökçe wetland in September, during which a two-day workshop was held to define a strategy and action plan. During this workshop the teams worked to map the relevant stakeholders and collect feedback to promote participation. The aim of this particular project is to recover the site for nature and humans alike, and establish a new resting and feeding refuge for birds. The field visit allowed the Tour du Valat restoration experts to assess the first stages of the restoration project.
Gökçe : a unique ecosystem to be conserved and restored
The landscapes of the Gökova region (Türkiye) are a sight to behold. Framed by mountains and the crystalline Aegean Sea, these stunning landscapes have an important biodiversity potential. Sadly, the area is under threat. Urbanization linked to mass tourism and the development of intensive agriculture are gradually eroding the natural areas.
Nearby the village of Gökçe, where the Akcapinar Azmar River meets the sea, there is a unique freshwater coastal ecosystem. The site is currently under threat from human activity, with farming disrupting the hydraulic functioning, and car traffic, generated from a popular kite-surfing spot, disturbing the biodiversity. Such a unique wetland merits an in-depth study not only to better understand its biodiversity and functioning, but to support its restoration and protection.
This remarkable wetland has been chosen as the Green Light Protocol’s first pilot site. A landscape architect has worked with the local organization to develop a vision for this area. The projected restored concept is being discussed with local stakeholders.
Four other additional sites will be selected for the Green Light Protocol. If you are in the Mediterranean region and would like to apply for the protocol, please contact:
segura-champagnon@tourduvalat.org
info@medalliancefortwetlands.org
