Ghost Farms Webinar Recap

Yesterday’s Healthy Seas webinar, “Unveiling Ghost Farms: A Hidden Threat to Our Seas,” was a resounding success, sparking curiosity and raising awareness about the pressing issue of abandoned fish farms. Participants from around the world joined to explore the complexities of ghost farms and their impact on marine ecosystems. The level of engagement and the many thoughtful questions demonstrated the importance of this topic and the need for continued dialogue.

For those who missed it or want to revisit the discussion, the webinar recording is now available on YouTube. You can also explore our comprehensive landing page on ghost farms here, which compiles vital information and resources.

Why You Should Watch the Recording

This webinar marked a crucial first step in shedding light on ghost farms—abandoned aquaculture facilities that are wreaking havoc on our seas. These derelict farms not only contribute to coastal pollution but also foster the spread of microplastics, posing a growing environmental challenge.

By watching the recording, you will:

• Learn what ghost farms are and why they are an emerging environmental threat.
• Understand the extensive cleanup efforts led by Healthy Seas over the past three years in Greece.
• Dive into the details of pollution caused by ghost farms, from plastic debris to microplastics, and its devastating impact on marine ecosystems.
• Explore sustainability guidelines for aquaculture and the critical role of education in building a sustainable future.
• Gain insights into the specific challenges faced by coastal regions in Greece, including firsthand accounts from the field.

Meet Our Speakers

The discussion featured insights from three exceptional experts:

• Veronika Mikos, Director of Healthy Seas Foundation, who provided an overview of ghost farms and shared Healthy Seas’ cleanup work and accomplishments.
• Christina Zantioti, MSc., PhD Candidate at the Agricultural University of Athens, who delved into the types of pollution caused by ghost farms, the environmental challenges they create, and the sustainability guidelines she promotes through educational workshops.
• Anastasios (Tasos) Filippides, Executive Director at Ozon N.G.O., who shared on-the-ground surveys of ghost farms and coastal pollution in Greece, highlighting their impact on local communities and ecosystems.

Looking Ahead

We hope this webinar left attendees with plenty of questions and a deeper understanding of the wide-reaching impacts of ghost farms. It’s clear that this is only the beginning of a broader conversation—and Healthy Seas is committed to leading the way.

We invite you to watch the recording, explore the landing page, and join us in our ongoing efforts to address the threats posed by ghost farms.

And stay tuned for the upcoming documentary!