Destressing the Mediterranean: RHE-MEDiation Releases New Policy Brief

The RHE-MEDiation Policy Brief, is now available, providing an in-depth look at one of the region’s most pressing environmental challenges. With the Mediterranean being a semi-enclosed basin exposed to intense human activity—from tourism and industry to agriculture and maritime transport—the accumulation of pollutants represents a growing threat to marine ecosystems and human health.

The Policy Brief developed by European Marine Board, explores how current European and regional policy frameworks address these challenges, while also highlighting existing gaps in implementation and enforcement. It places particular emphasis on the need for more effective pollution prevention strategies, improved wastewater treatment, and stronger coordination across Mediterranean countries.

A key focus of the publication is the innovative approach developed by the RHE-MEDiation project. By leveraging nature-based solutions such as microalgae-based photobioreactors, the project demonstrates how it is possible to reduce nutrients, heavy metals, pharmaceuticals, and other emerging contaminants in a sustainable and energy-efficient way. The document also presents results from demonstration sites across the Mediterranean, showcasing the potential of these technologies to complement existing wastewater treatment systems and support water reuse.

In addition, the Policy Brief underlines the importance of stakeholder engagement and inclusive governance, highlighting how collaboration with local authorities, industries, and communities can enhance the adoption and long-term impact of innovative solutions.

To ensure accessibility and maximise its impact across the region, the Policy Brief has been published in four languages: English, Italian, Turkish, and Greek. This multilingual approach aims to support knowledge sharing, foster regional cooperation, and encourage the uptake and replication of the RHE-MEDiation approach in diverse local contexts.