Smeralda Holding Blue Days, il mare come bene da proteggere insieme

Porto Cervo at the heart of a collaborative initiative involving businesses, citizens, and the younger generation

Here in the northeastern coast of Sardinia among iconic beaches, crystal-clear waters and children learning about the essence of the Mediterranean, sustainability takes concrete action with simple gestures and community participation. Smeralda Holding Blue Days is the programme of environmental projects promoted by Smeralda Holding which aims to raise awareness on this subject and engage workers, residents, schools, volunteers and local promoters, involving them in the protection of the natural resources of this unique island. When you live in such an extraordinary place, you need to preserve it. And the Consorzio Costa Smeralda® area, because of its delicate ecosystem and its almost unreal beauty, is one of those places in need of constant attention.

Not only just to preserve its charm but also because a healthy environment guarantees the quality of life, well-being and the future of those who live in it. The three green days organised by Smeralda Holding were included in the Agenda BLU project of the Municipality of Arzachena. Established in 2018, it has the support of institutions, foundations and volunteers, united with the aim of protecting the natural heritage of Sardinia by raising awareness and carrying out concrete safeguarding activities. It also enjoys the patronage of Olbia’s Direzione Marittima – Capitaneria di Porto Guardia Costiera.

Blue Days

The first event, on 21 April, involved cleaning up the Liscia Ruja beach organised with the contribution of Plastic Free Odv Onlus. Members of the Gruppo Smeralda Holding and Consorzio Costa Smeralda®, along with other volunteers took part in the event helping to clean up most of the iconic beaches of Gallura, giving value to such a simple gesture and turning it into an opportunity for sharing and awareness. On the occasion of Earth Day the next day, the project saw the participation of more than 130 children from the primary schools of Arzachena, Abbiadori and Cannigione. The children spent the morning learning about the sea taking part in activities organised with the collaboration of One Ocean Foundation. With the help of microscopes, laboratories and engaging activities, the little ones were able to observe Posidonia oceanica – the ‘green lung’ of the Mediterranean – run simulations of marine reforestation projects and learn how to safeguard dunes and coastal habitats. A smart and engaging way to teach environmental education in a practical way. The third event, on 16 May, involved the cleaning of the seabed of Marina di Porto Cervo. It enjoyed the supervision of the Coastal Guard and the support of local associations, professional scuba-divers and volunteers.

This task drew attention again to a problem of the marine ecosystem, often invisible to those who only observe the sea from the surface. Smeralda Holding Blue Days will continue with two new events: on 13 June and 8 July (International Day of the Mediterranean). Today we should all take pride in our privilege: the ability to safeguard the beautiful places around us.