Marine ecosystem: technology and sustainability at the center of the discussion at the Show

The protection of the marine environment and the balance between nautical activities and the preservation of coastal ecosystems were the central themes of the panel “Marine ecosystem: technology for the protection of the sea and coastlines”, held during the second day of the Sardinia Boat Show 2026. The discussion was moderated by Angelo Colombo, organizational manager of the event.

The panel featured Alessandro Botti, National President of Ambiente Mare Italia (AMI); Mattia Conte, Strategic Advisor of the VOX MARIS project; Gianluca D’Agostino, Maritime Director of Northern Sardinia; Augusto Navone, President of the IMC Foundation – International Marine Centre; and Jan Pachner, Secretary General of the One Ocean Foundation.

The discussion focused primarily on the impact of human activity on coastal areas, often concentrated into limited periods of the year but particularly intense from both a tourism and nautical perspective. At the center of the debate was the ability of marine ecosystems to recover from the pressure generated during peak season, with particular attention given to the fragility of Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows.

During the panel, Augusto Navone addressed the resilience of coastal ecosystems, while Gianluca D’Agostino highlighted the contribution that innovation and technology can provide in protecting the marine environment, including through alternatives to traditional anchoring systems, often responsible for damaging seabeds and posidonia meadows.

Among the tools presented during the discussion was DONIA, an application dedicated to conscious navigation and anchoring, designed to help boaters identify suitable mooring areas while avoiding the most fragile ecosystems. The app integrates detailed marine cartography, environmental information, and collaborative features dedicated to safety and the sharing of reports at sea.

The meeting also highlighted the growing need to strengthen the relationship between scientific research, innovative technologies, and environmental awareness, with the goal of promoting a model of nautical development compatible with the protection of the sea and coastal environments.