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Mediterranean Conservation Watch

The Mediterranean region supports a variety of instantly recognisable landscapes and seascapes, from olive groves and vineyards to rocky coves and sandy beaches, many of which have been affected and shaped by centuries of human management and intervention. Traditional management practices, such as farming, forestry, hunting and fishing in many cases have contributed to its unique range of habitats and diverse flora and fauna. However, despite the beauty and importance of its natural environment and its recognition as a global biodiversity hotspot, many of these landscapes are now unfortunately degraded or else under threat. As habitats have become degraded, many of the characteristic species they support have become vulnerable and scarce. For example, of the 4,777 plants which are endemic to the region, 3,000 are now considered to be rare, 180 endangered and 344 vulnerable.

Mediterranean habitats are also under threat from urbanisation and infrastructure development, especially along its coastline. Many economic activities and industries are concentrated there, such as aquaculture, ports, quarrying, chemical industries, agriculture and irrigation, salt production and mass tourism. The coastal habitats which are most damaged and/or are under threat are dunes, shallow waters, wetlands and beaches used as spawning sites by turtles. Traditional farmland habitats have also been negatively affected by over-exploitation and intensification, as well as from the opposite of this, the decrease and abandonment of traditional farming practices.

The Mediterranean is also considered to be one of the world’s most threatened seas. Some species have disappeared from certain areas, particularly in areas affected by pollution, and some could go extinct in the near future . Mediterranean islands are also known to harbour exceptional biodiversity including many endemic species, but they are particularly vulnerable to threats.

Some of the main threats to Mediterranean habitats and species are

1. Habitat loss and fragmentation
2. Pollution
3. Invasive alien species
4. Climate change
5. Over-exploitation (fishing and hunting)
6. Desertification
7. Forest fires