For almost a year, our fisheries research team of Archipelago have been collaborating on a daily basis with the fishermen of Lipsi. We are preparing an innovative co- management project of fisheries where local fisherman will have an active role. For this purpose, we’ve collected daily data on fish production, but also on the condition of the coastal ecosystems.

This common self-funded effort is an example of cooperation and trust between scientists and the local community with the sole aim to put an end on over fishing.

Given the current situation, we can not expect immediate solutions from politicians. Moreover, due to bureaucracy, much time has been spent in monotonous discussion of problems with no immediate solution. By wasting millions on the environment and fisheries – especially in the cities – the real final recipients, the local communities and fishermen haven’t even received a single euro.  This has lead to the tragic circumstances facing the local fishing community.