The Mediterranean region, with its breathtaking coastal landscapes and vibrant cultures, is not just a tourist destination; it’s a cradle of life, a source of livelihood, and a treasure trove of ecological wonders. However, beneath the blue waters and picturesque shores, a crucial but often overlooked resource faces daunting challenges: coastal aquifers. These underground lifelines, which are used for drinking water, agriculture, and industries, are confronting the escalating strain on groundwater supplies, encroaching saltwater infiltration, salinization of coastal aquifers, and the intricate transport of nutrients and contaminants.

Mediterranean Coast Day: honoring nature’s bounty

Every year on September 25th, Mediterranean nations celebrate ‘Coast Day.’ It acknowledges coastal regions as crucial natural, cultural, and socio-economic assets supporting sustainable development. Mediterranean Coast Day has evolved into a regional festival promoting the preservation of these coastal zones.

The 2023 edition focuses on coastal aquifers, celebrating their role as concealed freshwater resources. It represents a unique chance to champion a comprehensive strategy for the management of groundwater resources while safeguarding the delicate coastal ecosystems they support.

The official Mediterranean Coast Day ceremony, co-hosted by PAP/RAC and UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme (IHP), will be held on September 25, 2023, in Vlorë, Albania, with support from Albania’s Ministry of Tourism and Environment.

Why coastal aquifers matter

Coastal aquifers are more than just underground reservoirs; they are guardians of vital ecosystems and freshwater resources. Here’s why they matter:

• Ecosystem support. Coastal aquifers play a pivotal role in nurturing diverse ecosystems, from wetlands and estuaries to lagoons and humid zones. These habitats are not only essential for countless plant and animal species but also rely on groundwater for their survival.
• Addressing saltwater intrusion. Seawater intrusion, originating from both natural processes and human activities, threatens water quality and ecosystems. Coastal aquifers act as a natural defense, preserving shallow marine water quality and ecosystems while mitigating the effects of saltwater intrusion. Furthermore, submarine groundwater discharge, enriched with nutrients, can harm marine life and human health.
• Climate resilience. In the face of climate change, coastal aquifers emerge as vital allies. Rising global temperatures and sea levels necessitate their role in mitigating these impacts. These aquifers function as natural buffers, safeguarding coastal communities and ecosystems, all while serving as natural reservoirs for freshwater.

Protecting coastal groundwater and aquifers: action steps

Let’s take practical steps to safeguard these invaluable resources:

• At home: start with responsible actions like proper waste disposal, reduced chemical use, and regular inspection and maintenance of septic systems and wells.
• Integrated Coastal Zone Management: adopt comprehensive strategies to curb over-extraction, pollution, and saltwater intrusion. Regulations, best practices, buffer zones, and protective structures ensure aquifer health. Preserving natural ecosystems like wetlands and dunes safeguards against extreme weather impacts.

In conclusion, Mediterranean Coast Day highlights the vital role of coastal aquifers in the region’s fabric. By recognizing their importance and taking proactive conservation measures, we can ensure these valuable resources remain a source of sustenance for us and future generations. On this day, let’s celebrate and safeguard the life-giving aquifers beneath our coastal landscapes.

More Information

For further details about Mediterranean Coast Day and involvement opportunities, visit https://coastday.net/.