Legambiente Announces Kitesurfing Ban in Marsala's Stagnone Lagoon

 Legambiente has released a press statement indicating that kitesurfing is no longer allowed in the Stagnone Lagoon of Marsala. This position is supported by directives from the Sicilian Region and the Ministry of the Environment, which highlight the need to protect the ecosystem of the area, part of the Natura 2000 network.

According to the circular from the Ministry of the Environment dated April 29, 2024, any tourist, sports, or musical event that could have significant impacts on habitats and species of community interest must be preceded by an Environmental Impact Assessment (VIncA), as required by the 92/43 EEC Habitat Directive. This protocol is designed to assess the potential negative effects such events could have on the natural environment.

The Sicilian Region has implemented these directives and has sent specific communications to municipalities, former provinces, managers of protected sites, and law enforcement, indicating that no event should be authorized without a prior assessment of possible damage to the local ecosystem.

Reaction from Legambiente
Legambiente has reiterated the importance of respecting these directives to protect the flora and fauna of the Stagnone. "Kitesurfing in the Stagnone Lagoon is not allowed! And this time, it's not us saying it, but the Ministry of the Environment and the Sicilian Region," the statement said.

Legambiente has also urged the Municipality of Marsala and the Management Body of the Stagnone Reserve to revoke the permits already issued for the kitesurfing championships scheduled in the coming days.

Ministerial Directives
The circular from the Ministry of the Environment emphasizes that the organization of events potentially harmful to the environment, especially during sensitive periods for wildlife such as the breeding season, must be carefully regulated. Any initiative that could have a significant impact on Natura 2000 sites must be subject to a rigorous Impact Assessment.

Impact on Tourism and Sports
This decision represents a significant blow to sports tourism in the region, which has seen kitesurfing become one of the most popular activities in recent years. However, the protection of the environment and the conservation of protected natural areas are priorities to ensure the long-term sustainability of the Stagnone Lagoon.

Conclusion
The protection of the Stagnone ecosystem is a matter of fundamental importance, and the ministerial and regional directives aim to ensure that any activity carried out in the area fully respects environmental standards. Legambiente will continue to monitor to ensure that these directives are applied, thus protecting one of the most valuable natural habitats in Sicily.