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Dolphins Find Freedom: Europe's First Sea Sanctuary Opens
27 Aug
Summary
- Europe's first sea-based dolphin sanctuary is opening in Taranto, Italy.
- The refuge will house dolphins rescued from aquariums, offering an ethical solution.
- Advanced technology monitors the sanctuary's marine environment 24/7.
Europe's first sea-based sanctuary for formerly captive dolphins is nearing completion in Taranto, Italy. The San Paolo Dolphin Refuge, a pioneering project by the Jonian Dolphin Conservation association, will provide a new home for dolphins transitioning from aquarium life.
Marine biologist Carmelo Fanizza founded the Jonian Dolphin Conservation and has dedicated nearly a decade to this initiative. The refuge utilizes a seven-hectare area near San Paolo Island, equipped with high-tech monitoring systems including underwater cameras and AI to ensure optimal environmental conditions for the animals.
The sanctuary addresses a growing need as countries like France ban shows featuring cetaceans. Fanizza emphasizes that releasing long-term captive dolphins into the wild is not feasible, proposing this refuge as an ethical and welfare-focused solution.
Initially, the refuge will host a small group of dolphins as a pilot project. The adjacent Kètos center will serve as an observation and research hub, allowing for the study and monitoring of the dolphins in their new environment.
