Clean Ocean Project Wins Eco Award for ‘Salva la Bahía’
The renowned environmental organization Clean Ocean Project from the Canary Islands received a prestigious accolade at the Bilbao Surf Film Festival (BSFF) last Sunday. Their short film, Salva la Bahía, captured the Eco Award, highlighting the pressing need to protect coastal and marine environments. This recognition marks a significant achievement for Clean Ocean Project, elevating its message at an international level.
A Cinematic Call to Action
Salva la Bahía sheds light on the critical importance of safeguarding coastal areas against human impact. The film addresses urgent issues such as pollution, urban pressure, biodiversity loss, and the depletion of marine resources. With its striking visuals and direct narrative, the short film resonates with audiences, urging them to reflect on their own roles in protecting the ocean. The jury praised its educational approach and the clear message it communicates: environmental defense begins within each local community.
Standing Out Among Global Competition
The cortometraje stood out among over 60 international productions showcased at the 11th edition of the festival, held from February 26 to March 1, 2026, at the Itsasmuseum in Bilbao. Its ability to draw attention to the delicate balance needed between necessary port development and the conservation of Fuerteventura’s coastal and marine values made it particularly impactful. The film’s success underscores the importance of raising awareness about the fragility of coastal ecosystems and the urgent need for sustainable practices.
Clean Ocean Project’s Commitment to Conservation
Clean Ocean Project is well-known for its extensive efforts in marine conservation within the Canary Islands. This award reinforces its role as an active participant in environmental awareness and advocacy across both the local and European landscape. The organization engages in on-the-ground actions and educational campaigns aimed at fostering meaningful change in how society interacts with the ocean.
Advocacy Against Environmental Impact
Over the past five years, Clean Ocean Project has actively campaigned against the construction of an environmentally detrimental port infrastructure in the Bay of Corralejo. Their efforts include providing the relevant authorities with numerous insights and proposals to ensure that the future port development meets public needs while preserving the area’s natural and aesthetic values. This delicate balancing act seeks to harmonize the demands of residents, shipping lines, fishermen, and sports activities with ecological sustainability.
Grateful Acknowledgments
In the wake of this honor, Clean Ocean Project extends its gratitude to Francisco Javier González Díaz, the Deputy Minister of Public Works for the Government of the Canary Islands. His commitment to fostering port infrastructure while preserving the coastal and marine values of Corralejo has been instrumental. The organization also recognizes the support from various political groups in Fuerteventura advocating for sustainable development that respects environmental requirements.
Moreover, Clean Ocean Project expresses its heartfelt appreciation to the countless individuals and communities across Fuerteventura and the entire Canary Islands. These grassroots movements have tirelessly campaigned for a sustainable vision that acknowledges the limits of Canary Islands’ resources. Their voices have been pivotal in advocating for a development model that is sensitive to the territory’s unique ecological landscape.
Future Prospects
The short film Salva la Bahía has also been nominated for participation in upcoming international festivals in countries such as Mexico and Chile, promising to extend its reach and impact further. This recognition sends a hopeful message about the potential for global dialogue on marine conservation and the protection of fragile ecosystems.
Through the lens of cinematic storytelling, Clean Ocean Project not only champions the cause of environmental activism but also inspires viewers to take action in their own communities, reinforcing the idea that preserving our oceans is a shared responsibility.
