Ionian Sea
Optimize Offshore Wind Farm (OWF) development areas across the Patraikos Gulf area, by avoiding impacts on people and biodiversity, while maintaining economic feasibility.
Study area size: 2,167 km2
Country: Greece
Study area description
The Patraikos Gulf is a long, narrow gulf in the eastern Ionian Sea. It reaches depths of over 100m and temperature and salinity can vary in the area depending on the seasons. Water movement is influenced by ocean currents, rivers, wind and the narrow strait of Rion-Antirion. The gulf supports habitats such as seagrass meadows, wetlands and estuaries. The study area is located near the city of Patras, one of the largest ports in Greece.
Maritime transport plays a key role in shaping the region’s economic development, while both small-scale and semi-industrial fisheries contribute to local livelihoods. At the same time, the coastline is influenced by urbanization and agricultural activities, which place increasing pressures on the coastal and marine environment.
