Bycatch Reduction and Technological Innovation
The LIFE PROMETHEUS project is dedicated to reducing bycatch of sharks and rays in the Mediterranean Sea by implementing electric and magnetic deterrent technologies in twelve biodiversity hotspots. These innovative solutions help fishers reduce bycatch, ensuring a sustainable fishing industry while protecting endangered elasmobranch species. By integrating marine conservation technology with practical fishing strategies, the project supports a balance between biodiversity protection and economic sustainability.
Sustainable Fisheries and Alternative Practices
LIFE PROMETHEUS promotes sustainable fisheries by encouraging the harvesting of Invasive Alien Species (IAS) as an alternative to overfishing native sharks and rays. By shifting fishing efforts toward IAS management, such as lionfish and blue crabs, the project helps protect marine biodiversity while creating new economic opportunities for fishers. Identifying critical fishing zones and seasonal patterns, the project also assesses the economic benefits of bycatch reduction techniques, ensuring long-term adoption of eco-friendly fishing practices.
Sustainable Tourism and Community Engagement
The project promotes sustainable marine tourism by supporting shark and ray conservation efforts in key aggregation sites across the Mediterranean. By developing responsible ecotourism activities, such as diving with sharks and rays, LIFE-PROMETHEUS provides alternative income sources for fishers, reducing reliance on harmful fishing practices. Public awareness campaigns encourage shark-free seafood choices and the consumption of invasive species, engaging consumers, businesses, and tourism operators in marine conservation efforts.
The Project
Building a Sustainable Future for Marine Conservation
LIFE PROMETHEUS is committed to marine biodiversity conservation, promoting sustainable fisheries and eco-friendly fishing practices in the Mediterranean Sea. Through innovation, scientific research, and community engagement, the project develops long-term solutions that support healthy marine ecosystems while ensuring the economic sustainability of coastal communities.
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Our Mission
We empower fishers, coastal communities, and policymakers to adopt environmentally responsible fishing practices that protect elasmobranch species, including sharks and rays. Our key objectives include reducing bycatch, supporting alternative fisheries, and promoting sustainable marine tourism, ensuring that conservation efforts benefit both biodiversity and local economies.
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Our Values
LIFE PROMETHEUS is guided by sustainability, scientific integrity, and stakeholder collaboration to create practical, science-based solutions for marine conservation. By encouraging responsible fishing, public awareness, and policy engagement, we work toward a future where coastal livelihoods and marine ecosystems thrive together.
FAQ
Have Any Questions?
What is the main goal of the LIFE-PROMETHEUS project?
LIFE PROMETHEUS is dedicated to protecting elasmobranch species (sharks and rays) by reducing bycatch, promoting sustainable fisheries, and encouraging eco-friendly marine tourism in the Mediterranean.
How does the project support fishers in transitioning to sustainable practices?
The project provides innovative bycatch reduction technologies, promotes alternative fishing methods, and offers guidance to EMFAF grants to help fishers adopt sustainable fishing practices that protect marine biodiversity.
Where is LIFE PROMETHEUS being implemented?
The project operates in twelve key biodiversity hotspots across the Mediterranean, including the Balearic Islands, Gulf of Lion, Adriatic Sea, Greece, and Cyprus, all crucial habitats for sharks and rays.
How can the public contribute to marine conservation through the project?
People can support marine conservation by choosing shark-free seafood, participating in responsible marine tourism, and spreading awareness about sustainable fishing practices and elasmobranch protection.
Do you want to get involved and become part of the LIFE PROMETHEUS team too?
PRESS & EVENTS
Prometheus latest news
Marine Beacon Annual Meeting – 1st to 3rd April 2025
Next Tuesday, April 1st, Emanuela Fanelli will present the aims of the LIFE PROMETHEUS during
Learn MoreLIFE PROMETHEUS Presents Sustainable Fisheries Strategies at Workshop for Recreational Fishers in Limassol
Limassol, Cyprus, March 6, 2025 – The LIFE PROMETHEUS project , coordinated by the Università
Learn MoreLIFE PROMETHEUS Leads Workshop on Sustainable Fisheries for Small-Scale Fishers in Limassol
Limassol, Cyprus, March 5, 2025 – The LIFE PROMETHEUS project ,coordinated by the Università Politecnica
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