Greek Minister of Environment and Energy Stavros Papastavrou signed today (15 July 2026) the Presidential Decree establishing the Marine Park of the Southern Aegean – Southern Cyclades. The decree will now be submitted to the Council of State for review.
A Step Toward EU Leadership in Marine Protection
Speaking to ERT, Papastavrou confirmed that the Presidential Decree for the Ionian Sea Marine Park will follow in the coming weeks — positioning Greece as a frontrunner in marine environmental protection within the European Union. ‘This fulfils a commitment made by the Prime Minister, and we’re delivering it at record speed,’ he said. ‘EU member states are required to protect 30% of their marine areas by 2030; Greece is on track to exceed 35% in the first months of 2027.’
New Patrol Vessel ‘SyRNA’ Joins OFYPEKA Fleet
Also today, the minister received the patrol vessel SyRNA alongside Dr. Maria Papadopoulou, President of the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), and Dr. Kostas Triantis, CEO of the Hellenic Organisation for Environmental Protection and Climate Change (OFYPEKA).
The SyRNA is one of three modern, port-type vessels secured by OFYPEKA through the Recovery and Resilience Fund (RRF). These vessels significantly enhance the organisation’s operational capacity to monitor, supervise, and safeguard Greece’s marine protected areas.
Designed for safe, high-speed navigation even in adverse weather, the vessels support more effective biodiversity conservation and rapid response to maritime incidents.
Symbolism Behind the Name
The name SyRNA was chosen to reflect both the eponymous rocky islet in the Aegean and the broader marine region where the vessel will operate — underscoring its role in continuous maritime surveillance, protection, and presence.
Building Capacity Across the Country
Papastavrou noted that the two marine parks are nearing full operational readiness, with dedicated personnel and resources now in place. He highlighted the creation of a new General Directorate within OFYPEKA and the recruitment of over 300 permanent new staff — young professionals committed to environmental protection — who work daily from Karpathos to the Prespa Lakes to advance sustainable development across Greece.