Penalties for damage to Posidonia meadow

In order to preserve the Posidonia meadows and ensure maritime safety, the Préfet Maritime de la Méditerranée has introduced strict regulations concerning ship anchoring. These rules, in force since 2019, prohibit anchoring in certain sensitive areas.

He recently recognized the ecological damage caused by anchoring in protected areas and imposed fines and compensation for the restoration of damaged meadows. In its decision, the Court also upheld the presumption of damage to the Posidonia meadow as soon as a vessel anchors in an area protected by a prefectoral decree. This principle is based on the environmental impact of anchoring in these fragile areas. The Posidonia meadow, which plays a key role in marine biodiversity, is particularly vulnerable to disturbance by ship anchors.