AEGEAN MARINE LIFE SANCTUARY
A model sanctuary where expert care and rehabilitation will be provided to sick and injured marine animals in and around the Greek islands and formerly captive dolphins can thrive in a natural environment.
Through the creation of the Aegean Marine Life Sanctuary (AMLS), we aim to bring back respect to dolphins and other marine life in need, combining innovation with high standards of animal welfare, in a pristine natural location. The AMLS model aims to be a cost-effective, sustainable and innovative solution to a global problem, that is replicable and scalable, situated on the Greek island of Lipsi, in the Southeastern Aegean. The AMLS is in process of being created in the first country in history to protect dolphins by law: in ancient Greece dolphins were believed to be messengers of Poseidon, if a person was caught killing a dolphin the result would be the death penalty.
Aims & Mission
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A first-of-its-kind veterinary clinic and rehabilitation centre for sick/injured marine animals (dolphins, sea turtles, monk seals). Providing critical clinical care and rehabilitative treatment in a “teaching marine mammal hospital” far from human impacts.
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Provide a solution-based alternative offering long-term care and refuge for dolphins displaced due to closure of marine parks.
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Promote applied biodiversity conservation research through innovative habitat enhancement techniques such as artificial reefs and replantation of seagrass meadows.
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Provide expert care, comfort and compassion for animals physical and mental needs and setting future standards in animal welfare at marine sanctuaries.
Values
Rescue & Rehabilitation
A mission to rescue marine mammals in distress and provide a quality refuge for their recovery and rehabilitation.
Pioneering Research
An international research center where dolphins can be studied in a regulated, natural environment.
Sustainability
A sanctuary powered solely by renewable energy with a minimal plastic and carbon footprint.
Replicability
A model sanctuary that can be globally replicated and scaled to local conditions and different budgets.
Innovation
Compelling positive change by setting international standards through innovative protocols and practices.
Community Engagement
Dedicated to raising awareness and engaging local communities in the implementation of conservation solutions.
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Location
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The Aegean Sea is a natural habitat for Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), the species of dolphin most often held in captivity. The sanctuary bay contains all of the natural conditions and stimuli essential for their physical and psychological well-being.
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The AMLS is situated on the Greek island of Lipsi in the Northern Dodecanese. Vroulia Bay on the northwest of Lipsi Island was chosen as the ideal location after six years of thorough research.
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Situating the AMLS in an area with minimal human presence or disturbance, no light or sound pollution, a small local population and a long tradition of eco-friendly practices minimises any anthropogenic impacts which could disrupt the animals in rehabilitation.
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The long fjord provides safe shelter from rough seas, while the bay is characterised by ideal water conditions and sea currents to host marine animals in need of care. The gentle gradient provides a shallow section perfect for rehabilitation and deeper areas of up to 40 meters in depth.
