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The Marmara Project
Protecting the Heart of Türkiye: Where Community meets Conservation
THE SEA OF MARMARA
The Sea of Marmara is one of the world’s smallest seas, but its importance is immeasurable.
Connecting the Black Sea to the Aegean, it’s a vital bridge between continents, a hub of marine biodiversity, and a lifeline for the millions who rely on its waters.
But today, this vibrant sea faces grave threats: pollution, overfishing, climate change, and urbanization are pushing its delicate ecosystem to the brink.
Propontis, the geographic and historical gateway to the Black Sea, is a light-filled, hospitable haven with deep coves, numerous streams and rivulets, islands and islets.
Marianna Koromila
Our Mission Focus
The Marmara Project is built on the belief that protecting the Sea of Marmara is essential, not just for marine life but for the millions who depend on it for food, livelihoods, and identity.
In the shallower parts, the waters are translucent reflecting the blueness of the sky. As they deepen, they darken to a sapphire hue and at sunrise, the color of the water turns to amethyst.
Marianna Koromila
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Collaborations & Partnerships
Our work wouldn’t be possible without the support of the organizations who dedicate their efforts and resources to help us protect the Marmara Sea.
NATIONAL
GEOGRAPHIC
In collaboration with the National Geographic Young Explorer’s program, we launched a community-driven citizen science project.
This initiative empowers local residents to document and protect the Marmara Sea.
LUGUS FILMS
Lugus Films is the creative force behind The Marmara Project’s films, including our conservation short MARMARA.
Through stunning visuals and compelling storytelling, Lugus Studios helps bring the Marmara Sea’s story to life on the screen.
SUSTAINABLE OCEAN ALLIANCE
The Marmara Project partners with SOA Marmara—a Turkish hub established by our team under the Sustainable Ocean Alliance umbrella.
Together, we focus on fostering innovation and empowering young leaders to tackle environmental challenges in the Marmara region.
JOIN OUR EFFORTS TO PROTECT THE MARMARA
Protecting the Sea of Marmara requires all of us. Whether you’re a scientist, student, educator, or someone who loves the ocean, you can make a difference.
Join us in creating a future where Marmara thrives:
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Empower local communities to drive meaningful change.
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Support innovative conservation efforts.
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Share Marmara’s story to inspire action.
Every voice matters. Every action counts.
So important a factor was the existence of white marble, far from the metropolis in the homeland, that as time passed, the whole sea acquired another name. It came to be known as the Sea of Marmara.
Marianna Koromila