Divers worked at the Secca di Santo Stefano al Mare to protect the marine ecosystem by removing abandoned or lost fishing nets and gear from the seabed. This project is part of the Mosaico Verde campaign, promoted by AzzeroCO2 and Legambiente, focusing on the restoration and protection of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.

On May 26, 2025, the Ghost Nets Recovery Project was officially presented at the port of Santo Stefano al Mare. The initiative, included in the national Mosaico Verde campaign, targets environmental regeneration and protection, addressing the urgent issue of ghost nets: fishing nets, lines, hooks, and other equipment lost or abandoned underwater. These “invisible traps” pose a serious threat to marine biodiversity as they continue to ensnare fish, turtles, marine mammals, and seabirds long after being lost, often causing death.

The recovery activity took place simultaneously with the project presentation and focused on a biologically rich area of the Ligurian coast, where the concentration of ghost nets is particularly high. Beyond the direct danger to marine wildlife, these ghost nets also contribute significantly to pollution, releasing microplastics that cause long-term damage to aquatic ecosystems.

D-Marin hosted he event at the Aregai Marina, providing an ideal base for the operations. D-Marin’s support reflects its commitment to marine conservation and sustainability.

This project underlines the importance to safeguard marine environments, ensuring the protection and restoration of biodiversity along the Ligurian coast for future generations.