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Our movement begins with sand, but as sand moves on wind and water, grain by grain, we also form to the needs of the island, to protect her rich, interlinked natural heritage as needed. The sand movement "saves" the sand, "saves" the seal, "saves" the turtle, saves life focusing on what is missing to bring nature conservation one step further and bridge the huge gap between Environmental Legislation and its implementation by thinking globally and acting locally in an area of paramount importance.
The Sand Movement arose in the summer of 2019, when it became apparent that legally protected sand dunes (perceived as the heart of the island) were being destroyed, with virtually no opposition as authorities turned a blind eye. This movement consists of Zakynthian citizens who excel in their respective fields of expertise and apply them to Nature Conservation. What connects them is a desire to improve conditions and protect the natural treasures on the island and beyond, to share valuable knowledge to create effective action networks.
The beaches of Laganas Bay are eroding fast due to human action, despite the luxury and rare protection designation of one of Greece's first National Marine Parks. These beautiful stretches of sand are not only the primary tourism attraction, but also home to a multitude of animals and plants. The sand is essential to the life cycle of the endangered Loggerhead turtles, which bury their eggs in the Bay. Today, the Mediterranean monk seals hide in sea caves, but they, too, once enjoyed lounging in the sand - like humans.
The Sand Movement aims to raise awareness among locals and visitors and let us to see ourselves as caretakers of our one and only environment; the method is to bolster implementation of existing law, as key to preservation of endangered species, ecosystems, dwindling dunes and beaches.
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