Local Action
Mediterranean Impact
We combine science, community, and passion to safeguard our island’s unique biodiversity.
OUR MISSION
Protecting the Nature,
Biodiversity and Heritage of Elafonisos
We are a non-profit association dedicated to safeguarding the unique ecosystems, archaeological sites, and local community of Elafonisos, through science, education, and direct action without compromising the future of coming generations.
OUR SYMBOL
Why is the turtle part of our identity?
You might wonder why there’s a turtle in our logo when our work goes far beyond turtles. For us, it stands for the qualities we bring to everything we do: resilience, care, patience and the determination to keep going.
Turtles connect land and sea, adapt to different environments and help keep them healthy. At Elafonisos Eco, we share that connection, and the goal of protecting our island’s nature for generations to come.
OUR SEARCH
Our Mediterranean Impact
Your contribution directly supports biodiversity protection, marine conservation, and environmental education on Elafonisos and across the Mediterranean.
OUR SEARCH
Our Mediterranean Impact
Your contribution directly supports biodiversity protection, marine conservation, and environmental education on Elafonisos and across the Mediterranean.
The Lionfish Project
The lionfish is one of the most urgent invasive species threats in the Mediterranean. Since 2023, Elafonisos Eco has been leading the fight through monitoring, removal dives, scientific collaboration, and awareness campaigns across 10 cities.
WHAT WE DO
Owr work, from land to sea
Beyond the lionfish, four areas guide everything we do on Elafonisos.
Marine Protection
Caretta caretta turtles, Posidonia meadows and native species, and a Marine Protected Area around the island.
Waste & Water
Sustainable Tourism
Off-season events like Elafonisos Eco Week, longer stays and greener experiences for visitors.
Eco-Mobility
The Island
We call Home
A paradise to
preserve
Elafonisos is a 19 km² island between the Peloponnese and Kythira, home to Natura 2000 protected habitats, Posidonia meadows, Caretta-Caretta nesting sites, and the world’s oldest submerged city, Pavlopetri.
Protecting this small island means protecting a microcosm of Mediterranean biodiversity,
and proving that local action can drive regional change.
SQ KM SURFACE
YEARS OF HISTORY
ICONIC BEACHES
HONORARY MEMBERS
A shared commitment to the Mediterranean
H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco
What begins on a small island can inspire change across an entire sea. 
Since becoming an Honorary Member in 2023, H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco has held a special place in the story of Elafonisos Eco. His commitment to ocean conservation reflects our own mission to protect the Mediterranean.
That mission is taking shape through our lionfish initiative. By bringing together fishers, chefs, scientists and coastal communities, we are working to address the spread of this invasive species and turn a growing marine challenge into an opportunity for action.
SUPPORT OUR WORK
Be Part of the Solution
Your contribution directly supports biodiversity protection, marine conservation, and environmental education on Elafonisos and across the Mediterranean.
OUR PARTNERS
Working Together for the Mediterranean
SUPPORT OUR WORK
Join the Elafonisos
Eco Community
Support our mission, connect with like-minded people, and help protect one of the Mediterranean’s most precious natural treasures.
Or get involved: Volunteer → • Internship → • Scouts →