Marine and Coastal Conservation Program - Kefalonia, Greece.
Since 2012, this project has been actively involved in conservation and research on the Greek island of Kefalonia. While working to protect sea turtles, the team has monitored changes in beach profiles over time due to both human and environmental impacts. Because sea turtles are part of both coastal and marine ecosystems, the research has expanded to include studies of the protected Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows and sand dune systems, both of which are listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Not only are these ecosystems vital nesting and foraging grounds for endangered sea turtles, but they also serve as important biomarkers for climate change and much more!
Join this inspiring Marine and Coastal Conservation Program to help protect the large Posidonia seagrass meadows and sand dune systems found around the stunning island of Kefalonia. Gain hands-on research experience, discover the rich marine life thriving in Posidonia habitats, and explore the critical role of sand dunes in addressing climate change.
The program runs from June through September, with start dates every second Thursday until the end of the season. Volunteers will be directly involved in field research, conducted to scientific standards so the data can be used in environmental studies. You'll build your teamwork and leadership skills while working alongside like-minded people and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of protecting dune and Posidonia ecosystems. You'll also develop a stronger awareness of current climate challenges and their impact on both marine and terrestrial environments.
Volunteers will spend most of their time exploring the Posidonia seagrass meadows and studying the extensive sand dune systems. You'll learn about the species living in each environment, create topographical maps, and gain insight into the environmental pressures these ecosystems face.
In addition, you'll help keep Kefalonia's beaches free from litter and debris, take part in drone-based research, and review the images collected after each flight. There’s plenty of free time each day and on most evenings to relax or join in on group activities like movie nights and quizzes. You’ll also have two full days off per week.
Please note: This project fills up quickly, so we recommend booking early to secure your spot.
Our program focuses on the Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows and the coastal sand dunes of southeastern Kefalonia, particularly around the Mounda Peninsula. Seagrass meadows are more effective carbon sinks than rainforests and play a key role in mitigating climate change. They also provide essential habitat and nursery grounds for many marine species. Meanwhile, sand dunes form a dynamic barrier between land and sea, creating a specialised ecosystem that is increasingly under threat from development and erosion.
Using drone technology, both coastal and marine research areas are regularly surveyed. You don’t need to have drone experience, you’ll receive training and get the chance to see how drones are used in modern environmental science. Aerial surveys over the sea help locate seagrass meadows and guide snorkelling expeditions. Along the coast, drones are used to create topographic and 3D maps of dune systems, allowing researchers to track ecosystem changes over time.
Snorkelling teams will survey nearshore areas and collect geotagged photos of seagrass beds. These images are later analysed to identify species and assess meadow health.
Coastal dune systems will be mapped and studied through beach profiling and plant identification surveys, including evaluations of dune conditions and trends. The team will also monitor the presence of plastics and other pollutants in both marine and coastal environments.
The data collected by this project contributes to one of the most detailed datasets on coastal and marine ecosystems in the area.
Below is an overview of what a typical two-week period might look like and the tasks you'll be involved in.
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