One Ocean Foundation and Smeralda Holding continue their joint commitment to protecting Mediterranean biodiversity by launching a new initiative dedicated to the conservation of the dune ecosystem at Grande Pevero Beach, one of the most iconic stretches of Costa Smeralda. The initiative was officially presented today in the presence of the Mayor of Arzachena, Roberto Ragnedda, Environmental Delegate Michele Occhioni, Smeralda Holding CEO Mario Ferraro, and One Ocean Foundation Secretary General Jan Pachner.
The Municipality of Arzachena has approved the project, which aims to counteract coastal erosion and enhance an area of great environmental and touristic value. The initiative is part of the "Save the Dunes" program promoted by the Foundation, aimed at protecting and restoring coastal habitats through sustainable, low-impact solutions. The project is included in the Agenda Blu 2025 calendar of the Municipality of Arzachena, which brings together actions for environmental protection and the dissemination of sustainable practices carried out with associations, foundations, companies, and volunteers.
The intervention at Grande Pevero Beach involves replacing the aging dune protection system with new lightweight and recyclable structures made from natural materials such as wood and plant fibers. These structures are designed to safeguard the dunes and the surrounding Mediterranean scrub, especially in areas most exposed to erosion. The protective barriers, designed to blend harmoniously into the landscape, will help reduce sand loss and support the natural regeneration of dune vegetation and the preservation of biodiversity.
A key element of the project is environmental awareness. Alongside the physical protection works, informative signage will be installed to educate beachgoers, residents, and local students about the importance of these ecosystems and the crucial role they play in coastal defense and biodiversity conservation.
“After the pilot project carried out last year at Capriccioli Beach in collaboration with the Municipality, we chose to continue and strengthen our commitment with a new action dedicated to protecting dune ecosystems. This time, we are partnering with Smeralda Holding, which fully shares the mission of One Ocean Foundation to safeguard marine biodiversity, and we continue to benefit from the concrete support of local institutions, which have shown great sensitivity to the environmental value of this intervention. Our goal is to foster greater awareness, both among residents and visitors, so that everyone feels actively involved in protecting the marine and coastal environment, starting from responsible everyday choices,” said Riccardo Bonadeo, President of One Ocean Foundation.
Smeralda Holding confirms its support for the project, which is part of a broader strategy for the sustainable development of the region. Following the success of the Blue Forest project for the restoration of Posidonia oceanica in Cala di Volpe, the company further strengthens its role as a responsible actor in the protection of the marine and coastal environment.
Coastal dunes are among the ecosystems most exposed and vulnerable to climate change. They act as natural barriers against erosion, protecting the shoreline from storm surges and contributing to the ecological stability of coastal areas. They are also protected under the European “Habitats” Directive 92/43/EEC. However, their presence is increasingly reduced.
Grande Pevero Beach, known for its fine white sand and crystal-clear waters, stretches 430 meters in length and 14 meters in depth. It is surrounded by wild nature and sandy dunes that host wildlife and typical Mediterranean vegetation, such as junipers and sea lilies. Thanks to the intervention of One Ocean Foundation and Smeralda Holding, this biodiversity can be protected from human pressure, while also helping to counteract coastal erosion and regenerate these precious sandy formations—natural habitats for various plant and animal species.
