Trieste, Italy – 29 June 2026

The 2026 SPAMI Days took place on 29 and 30 June in Trieste, at the Miramare Marine Protected Area. This fifth edition brought together managers, authorities, scientists and partners to discuss ecological restoration and the strengthening of the network of Specially Protected Areas of Mediterranean Importance.

Discussions focused on the conditions needed for successful marine restoration projects, their financing and their implementation on a larger scale. Participants highlighted the importance of strong governance, science-based decision-making and closer cooperation among sites within the network.

Maria Betti, Executive Secretary of the Pelagos Agreement, presented the Pelagos Sanctuary as a major example of transboundary cooperation. Established by France, Italy and Monaco, it covers 87,500 km², more than half of which lies in the high seas. Its SPAMI status supports coordination among States, scientific cooperation, international visibility and access to new funding opportunities. Among the main positive outcomes were the shared commitment to developing common solutions and the recognition of the central role of science. The Pelagos example shows that effective protection is possible beyond national borders through shared objectives and long-term commitment.

Cooperation among SPAMIs is therefore essential to address climate change, maritime traffic, underwater noise and marine litter. The 2026 SPAMI Days highlighted that protecting the Mediterranean depends both on local action and on the ability of countries to work together. By encouraging the exchange of experience and regional cooperation, the event confirmed the role of SPAMIs as key drivers of the conservation and restoration of Mediterranean ecosystems.