Balearics to Fine Yachts for Eco-Damage to Seabed
August 22nd, 2011
The Balearic Government is to impose fines of between 100 euros and 450,000 euros on vessels anchoring in an uncontrolled manner causing damage to the precious underwater meadows of posidonia oceanica (commonly known as Neptune Grass or Mediterranean Tapeweed), a seagrass species that is endemic to the Mediterranean Sea, and is a plant vital to the marine ecosystem of the area.
The area covered by this seagrass has been reduced in recent years by between 30 and 40% due to a combination of the ignorance of boat owners – not knowing that these dense flowering plant meadows are essential for fish reproduction and conversion of CO2 into oxygen – and the passivity of the authorities. In fact, at the outset of this conflict, which has been going on for weeks, the Balearic Government said they could not control the anchoring of yachts. However, last week, after the commotion caused by the environmental report, they relented and announced the proposed introduction of fines.
El Pais reported that the Environmental Body will operate six vessels which will monitor the nine Balearic coastal areas considered to be Sites of Community Importance. The ships will monitor the hot spots accompanied by an environmental agent, who may impose penalties for any irregularities. Fines will range from 100 euros to 6,000 euros if the offence is minor, between 6,001 and 100,000 euros if it is a serious offence, and up to 450,000 euros for a very serious offence. The latter could occur, for example, by the dumping of waste in a protected area. Anchoring without permission is considered a misdemeanor.
The Environment Ministry said that the intention of these measures is not to be punitive but rather preventive, to deter any wrongdoing. The operators of the surveillance ships will inform the boat owners of the ecological importance of the seagrass, and point out the areas where they are allowed to anchor.
Monitoring started on Friday and will continue until 18 September when fewer boats are anchoring due to the tourist season coming to an end. All the areas of importance have this type of algae, which creates the backdrop and habitat for over 400 plants and 1,000 animals. It is food, hiding and breeding ground for numerous species. These areas of posidonia oceanica extend from the majestic plains of Ses Salines, covering the south of Ibiza and the north of Formentera, to the Cabrera National Park, the Bay of Alcudia and Pollensa in northern Mallorca, and the Bay of Palma.
