As part of its collaboration with the Mediterranean Conservation Foundation, Arkas Line is contributing to the sustainable protection of the region’s ecosystem by supporting two projects in the Gökova Special Environmental Protection Area that combine scientific monitoring with on-site conservation efforts.
Arkas Line is further strengthening its long-term commitment to marine ecosystem conservation by sponsoring two stations within the Gökova branch of the Marine Ranger System and the Climate Crisis Impact Monitoring Program implemented by the Mediterranean Conservation Foundation (AKV) across six special environmental protection areas. The program presents a measurable and sustainable conservation model that brings together scientific climate and ecosystem monitoring with ongoing field operations.
Continuous Protection Through Marine Ranger and Climate Crisis Impact Monitoring Programs
The program carried out in the Gökova Special Environmental Protection Area encompasses two projects.
Through the Marine Ranger System, continuous field monitoring is carried out in the region with two marine guardians and two patrol boats in order to prevent illegal activities in no-fishing zones and protect biodiversity.
Through the Climate Crisis Impact Monitoring Program, a wide range of data—from sea water temperature and pH measurements to fish biomass counts and the monitoring of sensitive species and habitats—is regularly tracked using scientific methods.
This comprehensive structure supports the protection of Gökova not only with field-based activities, but also through a consistent flow of scientific data provided to decision-makers.
A Strategic Collaboration for Long-Term Impact
Arkas Line, which prioritizes environmental and social impact in the regions where it operates, approaches the protection of marine ecosystems with a strong sense of responsibility.
Arkas Line considers this cooperation a natural continuation of its sustainability-driven approach, while the role of Arkas Holding Vice President Bernard Arkas on the board of trustees emphasizes the significance and long-term commitment given to the initiative. The board of trustees of the Mediterranean Conservation Foundation also includes Caroline Koç, Member of the Board of Koç Holding; Kenan Yılmaz, Chief Legal and Compliance Officer of Koç Holding; Stefano Kaslowski, Co-CEO of Organik Kimya and President of the Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Türkiye; Jeff Hakko, Vice Chairman of Vakko Holding and Honorary Consul General of Finland in Istanbul; architect and industrial diver Ali Enes Edis; and Zafer Ali Kızılkaya, Chairman of the Board of the Mediterranean Conservation Foundation.
The projects carried out are designed not only to support ecosystem conservation and the sustainability of biodiversity, but also to generate tangible impact by raising awareness for the long-term health of our seas. Scientific data and findings obtained through the program will contribute to regional conservation efforts and help increase awareness. They will also lay the groundwork for the adoption of necessary measures and the implementation of related actions. With Arkas Line employees taking part in different phases of the process, the program aims to expand its sphere of influence in protecting marine environments.
