IUCN Centre for Mediterranean Cooperation

The Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), the only resident pinniped species in the Mediterranean Sea, stands as one of the most endangered marine mammals on Earth. The growing interest in the species and its preservation has led in recent years to an intensification of the research, management and conservation initiatives.

The Mediterranean blue carbon strategy aims to establish a comprehensive framework for the protection, restoration, and sustainable management of blue carbon ecosystems, such as Posidonia oceanica meadows and other seagrasses. These ecosystems are vital for climate change mitigation, carbon storage, and providing essential services like biodiversity, coastal protection, and sustainable livelihoods.

This report gives an overview of the status of Mediterranean cetaceans (whales and dolphins), informed by IUCN Red List assessments undertaken between 2018 and  2022. Compared to the first review by IUCN, published in 2012, these recent assessments provide better information on the status of resident Mediterranean  subpopulations, thanks to improved regional monitoring.