LIFE SIP GR Blue – Integrated Approach for the Implementation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive
LIFE SIP GR Blue is an eight-year LIFE Strategic Integrated Project (SNAP/SIP) with a total budget of €14.95 million, funded under the LIFE Programme of the European Union. The project supports the full implementation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) in Greece, contributing to the achievement and maintenance of Good Environmental Status (GES) of the country’s marine waters through an integrated, ecosystem-based approach.
Coordinated by the Hellenic Ministry of Environment and Energy, the project brings together 16 organizations from the public sector, academia, research institutions, regional authorities, NGOs, and the private sector. It aligns with the EU Nature Restoration Regulation, the Barcelona Convention, the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, and the objectives of the European Green Deal, ensuring coherence between national and European marine environmental policies.
LIFE SIP GR Blue adopts a comprehensive framework addressing all 11 descriptors of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive, integrating actions for biodiversity conservation, ecosystem resilience, sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, invasive alien species management, pollution and contaminant reduction, hydrographic monitoring, marine litter, underwater noise, and climate resilience. The project combines scientific research, environmental monitoring, governance, policy implementation, and stakeholder engagement to strengthen the long-term protection of Greece’s marine ecosystems.
A total of 20 pilot actions will be implemented across the North Aegean, South Aegean, and Central Macedonia Regions, covering almost the entire Aegean Sea and more than 5,800 km² of Natura 2000 protected marine areas. These demonstrations will validate innovative management approaches and facilitate the replication and upscaling of successful measures at national and regional levels.
The project also includes nationwide awareness campaigns, capacity-building activities, and stakeholder networking to strengthen collaboration among public authorities, research organizations, NGOs, local communities, and the private sector. Through enhanced governance, innovative technologies, and evidence-based decision making, LIFE SIP GR Blue aims to establish a lasting framework for sustainable marine management and contribute significantly to the implementation of EU environmental policy and biodiversity objectives.
Role of the Marine Remote Sensing Group (MRSG)
Within LIFE SIP GR Blue, the Marine Remote Sensing Group (MRSG) of the University of the Aegean contributes its expertise in Earth Observation, UAV-based monitoring, marine remote sensing, GIS, and environmental data analysis. MRSG supports the development and implementation of innovative methodologies for monitoring marine ecosystems and protected areas, providing scientific evidence to improve marine environmental assessment, management, and decision-making in support of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive.
Acronym: LIFE24-IPE-EL-LIFE SIP GR Blue
Start Date – End date : 01/12/2025 – 30/11/2033
Total Eligible Budget: 14,954,311 €
EU Contribution: 8,969,377 €