In the rugged, mountainous landscape of Amorgos, one of Greece’s easternmost Cycladic islands, a remarkable movement is unfolding. Born from necessity and a deep love for the sea, Amorgorama is a fisher-led initiative that has become a global exemplar for marine conservation and sustainable fishing. This innovative partnership, uniting local fishers, conservationists, scientists, and government bodies, aims to protect the marine environment while safeguarding the livelihoods of the island community.

The Crisis that Sparked a Movement

For generations, the fishers of Amorgos relied entirely on the Aegean Sea for their sustenance and way of life. However, like many coastal communities worldwide, they began to face a grim reality: marine pollution and overfishing were devastating ocean ecosystems. Michalis Krosman, President of the Professional Fishing Association of Amorgos, recalled, "We thought the sea was a source that will never end. There will be fish forever." But by 2010, fishers observed dwindling catches and decreasing incomes. Their nets often brought back more plastic than fish, and the northern beaches, inaccessible by land, accumulated tons of plastic rubbish every spring after winter storms. This plastic debris posed a threat to the ecosystem and fish reproduction.

The dire situation forced many fishers to take on second jobs, or even surrender their licenses and dismantle their traditional Greek fishing boats, known as Kaïkia, in exchange for compensation under a 2014 EU overfishing regulation. Faced with an uncertain future, the approximately 40 members of the Professional Fishing Association of Amorgos, known as “Η Χοζοβιώτισσα,” decided to take matters into their own hands.

The Birth of a Collective Vision: Amorgorama

The movement began taking shape as early as 2013 when the fishing association ventured beyond Amorgos to attend the 2nd European Low-Impact Fishermen (LIFE) conference in Spain. It was there that Michalis Krosman and his colleagues realized they were not alone in their struggles, and that solutions existed. This realization sparked a vision for a different future for Amorgos's seas.

In 2019, the association co-founded Amorgorama with German artist and scientist Florian Reiche. The initiative gained early momentum through a successful crowdfunding campaign and key partnerships within Greece and beyond, including the Cyclades Preservation Fund (CPF) and the Blue Marine Foundation (BMF).  The name itself, "Amorgorama," embodies this hope: Orama means vision in Greek, signifying the fishers' vision for "clean seas full of fish".

The Four Pillars of Amorgorama’s Strategy

After extensive discussions and a hard-won consensus, the fishers of Amorgos developed a four-pillar master plan aimed at revitalizing their marine environment and ensuring sustainable livelihoods. This bold approach, unique in Greek fishing history, demonstrates their commitment to long-term sustainability.

1. Seasonal Fishing Prohibition: A critical decision was to pause fishing activities for all boats—local, professional, and amateur—during April and May. These months are crucial for the reproduction of commercially important fish species. This self-imposed economic blow, suspending fishing in the middle of the breeding season, highlights the fishers' dedication to the natural environment.

2. Coastal Clean-up Actions: During these two months of fishing prohibition, the fishers repurpose their vessels to address the pressing issue of marine pollution. They use their boats and local knowledge to clean inaccessible northern beaches, which accumulate tonnes of plastic rubbish. From 2021 to 2022 alone, 38 waste collection actions were carried out, with fishers collecting over 1,200 large bags of trash and sending more than 15 tonnes of plastic for recycling. Approximately 60-65% of the recovered plastic is recycled, along with 3 tonnes of nets and ropes.

3. Transition to Environmentally Friendly Fishing Gear: Amorgorama promotes and facilitates the adoption of more sustainable fishing practices. This includes replacing traditional gear with more environmentally friendly options, such as nets with larger mesh and hooks. The goal is to avoid capturing small, young fish, allowing them to grow and reproduce. Recyclable nets have also been introduced.

4. Creation of Fisheries Restricted Areas (FRAs): Perhaps the most critical and challenging pillar involved the establishment of no-take FRAs, meaning specific zones where fishing is permanently prohibited to enhance fish reproduction and biodiversity. These areas are designed to provide undisturbed havens for fish reproduction, which has been shown in other regions to dramatically increase fish populations. Initially, the plan was to permanently halt fishing for five consecutive years in three of the island's most important fishing grounds: Nikouria, Katapola bay, and the area between the islets of Gramvoussa and Kalotaritissa. These zones will serve as sanctuaries for fish to reproduce and recover, acting as "banks" for fish stocks. The fishers themselves developed a management plan to reverse overfishing, understanding that they "had to sacrifice; they had to change, because otherwise they had to quit".

Key Partnerships and Government Endorsement

Amorgorama's success is deeply rooted in strong collaborative partnerships. From its inception, the initiative received practical support from the Cyclades Preservation Fund (CPF), which provided funding, capacity, networking, and visibility. Soon after, the Blue Marine Foundation (BMF) joined forces, further bolstering the project.

A crucial scientific partner has been the Agricultural University of Athens (AUA). Following guidelines from the Greek Ministry of Rural Development & Food, the AUA conducted a vital fisheries study for Amorgos to identify and demarcate fundamental habitats and ideal sites for the Fisheries Restricted Areas. This study also proposed alternative management and protection measures for sustainable coastal fisheries. The study was privately funded Cyclades Reservation Fund and Blue Marine Foundation, underscoring the importance of these collaborative efforts.

The initiative's community-led nature and scientific backing gained significant attention, leading to formal recognition from the Greek government. In September 2022, a memorandum of cooperation was signed between Amorgorama and the Deputy Minister of Rural Development and Food. This was a pivotal moment, signaling official support for Amorgorama's goals.

 In April 2024, at the Our Ocean Conference in Athens, the Minister of Rural Development and Food publicly announced the Greek government's approval for the proposed new FRAs around Amorgos. This commitment was also reiterated at the same conference by the Greek Prime Minister, who pledged to expand Greece's marine protected area network and ban bottom trawling in all MPAs by 2030, and to establish the FRAs around Amorgos that the fishers requested.  The study's approval is a significant step, as the establishment of these FRAs is expected to contribute to Greece's commitment to establishing more Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and FRAs by 2030 (known as the "30-30" target).

Following the positive recommendation from the Fisheries Council of the Ministry of Rural Development and Food in December 2024, a draft Presidential Decree (PD) for the institutionalization of the FRAs around Amorgos was submitted to the Council of State (ΣτΕ) in February 2025 for consultation.

The issuance of the Presidential Decree will make the Amorgorama one of a kind initiative in the world, and it’s no coincidence that the attention of both the Greek and global fishing communities is focused on Amorgos. “If it succeeds here, it will succeed elsewhere too,” emphasizes Mr. Krosman in an interview with Gastronomos magazine. “That’s why we say that during this five-year period, state support is needed. Without compensation, no fisherman will be able to survive.”

Furthermore, at the 3rd UN Oceans Conference in Nice in June 2025, the Greek Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, highlighted Amorgorama as a model initiative, emphasizing Greece's commitment to expanding its marine protected area network from 20% to 30% and banning bottom trawling in all MPAs by 2030. The Prime Minister specifically cited Amorgorama as an example of "local fishing communities…establishing specific no-fishing zones around the island as safe havens for marine life".

A Global Model and Future Outlook

It has obvious that Amorgorama’s bold actions and collaborative spirit have garnered international acclaim and its success might prove crucial for the future The initiative has also fostered peer-to-peer learning; Michalis Krosman connected with the president of the Gökova Fishers Association in Rome, whose successful marine protection efforts in Gökova Bay had originally inspired Amorgos fishers. They now meet annually to exchange insights.

While government support is critical, particularly regarding compensation for fishers during the no-fishing periods, the Amorgorama partners are committed to ensuring the long-term success of the Fishing Restricted Areas (FRAs), including matters of funding, scientific monitoring, and enforcement. The effective control and supervision of these restricted areas is a prerequisite for the success of the entire endeavor.

Today, Amorgorama stands as a beacon of inspiration and optimism not only for Amorgos but for other fishing and small communities across the Aegean Sea and beyond. What began as a desperate struggle by a handful of fishers has transformed into a globally recognized model for how local communities can lead the charge in protecting our oceans and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.

I.L., with information from Amorgorama; Cyclades Preservation Fund; Revive our Ocean; Gastronomos; Κυκλαδική΄΄΄; Innovationinpolitics.eu

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During the last years, Greek economy has been marked by a remarkable growth in the field of renewable energy. According to a recent report by environmental think-tank Green Tank, Greece reached a new clean energy milestone last year, with the production of clean energy (renewables and large hydro) being the highest of the decade. This achievement underlines Greece's ongoing commitment to renewable energy, carbon neutrality by 2050, and its efforts to become a green energy hub for Southeast Europe.

Under the recently revised National Energy and Climate Plan, Greece aims to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 58% over the next five years, by 80% by the end of the next decade, and to achieve total carbon neutrality - as well as complete energy independence - by 2050. The revised national plan for 2025-2050 calls for the share of renewable energy sources in electricity generation - currently around 57% - to rise to 75% by 2030 and 95.6% by 2035.

The development of new renewable energy projects, new technologies, new electricity interconnections and energy-saving measures will require combined investments of 436 billion euros by 2050, according to the National Energy and Climate Plan. This will contribute 6 billion euros a year to gross added value and increase GDP by 2.5% by 2050.

Thanks to dynamic investment in renewables, the country has gone from being an energy importer in 2019 to a stable exporter in 2024, which is very important for the country's energy self-sufficiency.

The renewable energy field is certainly one of the most important examples of investment in new fixed productive capital on Greek territory, while these investments have already produced tangible results in the electricity generation mix. Estimates of the value of these investments over the last five years reach around 9.5 billion euros in renewable energy plant construction projects, complementary projects and infrastructure and network projects.

More specifically, according to the data provided by the Greek Independent Power Transmission Operator (IPTO or ADMIE) S.A., a total of 25.2 TWh of electricity was generated on the interconnected grid from renewable energies - excluding large hydro - reaching a production level more than twice that of 2019 (12.2 TWh), suggesting an average annual growth rate of 15.6%. This rapid increase in renewable energy capacity, combined with the adoption of the policy of total decarbonization by 2028 - despite its adjustment due to the energy crisis and the war in Ukraine - has led to a radical shift in the electricity generation mix.

According to a study by the Greek think-tank diaNEOsis, the largest share (55.3%) of electricity demand in the interconnected system in 2024 was covered by renewable energy sources (including hydropower), which was achieved for the first time in 2023 (51.4%), with the share of coverage rising continuously and rapidly. On the contrary, in addition to - and despite - the drastic reduction in the use of lignite, it seems that in 2024 Greece also managed to annihilate net electricity imports, making the country a net exporter, a first since 2000.

Addressing the 3rd Inter-Parliamentary Forum of the OSCE (Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) PA South East Europe Delegations, held in Kastoria on March 27-30, the new Deputy Minister of Energy (Hellenic Ministry of Environment and Energy), Nikos Tsafos, pointed out that the installation of around 13 GW of solar and wind power alone has contributed to the increase in renewable energy sources in the electricity mix.

With regard to the share of renewable energy in the energy mix, Greece is making steady progress, having exceeded the European average by 2023. Greece has increased the share of renewable energy in the energy mix by 61% between 2014 and 2023, ranking 7th out of 36 European countries in terms of the evolution of the share of renewable energy in the energy mix for the reference period.

According to diaNEOsis, total net production exceeded demand by 307 MWh, corresponding to 0.6% of demand. This picture is not very different if we include the unconnected islands, which are mainly electrified by oil- and gas-fired power plants, the relative contribution of renewables being much smaller. In particular, according to “Green Tank” data for the whole of 2024, renewables record a slightly lower relative contribution to meeting demand across the entire power system, but retain an absolute majority, with a share of 50.8%.

The rapid rate of increase in the installed capacity of renewables and the achievement of record levels of their share in electricity generation are undoubtedly having a very positive impact on the detachment of the Greek economy from both coal combustion and the associated greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, as well as from foreign energy imports. However, this development also brings with it a number of new technical challenges, which need to be met effectively and promptly to avoid creating obstacles to the increased penetration of renewable energy sources.

Based on the original article which appeared on GrèceHebdo (Intro photo by Micah Giszack on Unsplash)

Read also via Greek News Agenda: Greece Unveils Revised National Energy and Climate Plan: Aiming for Carbon Neutrality by 2050; Greece’s Offshore Wind Energy program draws strong investment interest; Greece’s renewable energy landscape

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Vanishing Landscapes is a two-year research project culminating in a four-day-on-site gathering (6-9.3.2025) at the fragile lagoon of the Aitoliko (Etoliko). Its starting point and inspiration is the work of the late artist Vasso Katraki, whose early paintings and prints pay attention to the lagoon and the communities who lived from and worked around it—fishing, surviving, hand to mouth (Cover Photo: Airview of Aitoliko, Source: C messier, commons.wikimedia.org).

According to the organizers, “by using the Centre of Engraving Arts – Vasso Katraki Museum in Aitoliko as a springboard, we will explore how an arts institution rooted in land and community can create meaning for the future: from looking back at Katraki’s prints and connecting them to the surrounding environment, to listening to and learning from the human and more-than-human communities that have evolved with the waters, to reflecting on the transforming landscape, so that we can find tools to live together and adapt to our radically changing world”.

Vanishing Landscapes, Visuals Angelina Stavela

Vanishing Landscapes is an invitation to experience the fragile ecosystem of Aitoliko. Its overlapping micro-geographies—the Acheloos and Evinos rivers, mingling salt and fresh waters, neighbouring alluvial forests and salt basins—constitute an ecosystem with a vibrant, multilayered biodiversity, making it a key pit stop for migratory birds. The local geography has held sway over the human imagination for centuries, from ancient myths to epic tales and the national fervour surrounding Greece’s independence from Ottoman rule.

Vanishing Landscapes, Campus Novel in their screening lecture performance “A place like you and me: Composing stories for transregional liminality”, challenge organised order, value judgments, and dominant narratives related to living beings and the environment (left), Yiannis Papadopoulos’ three-day research-based workshop “People descended from Trees and Deer” explores the unique natural characteristics of the Aitoliko area, with a focus on producing materials using printmaking practices (right)

As part of the Vanishing Landscapes project, the organizers have invited a diverse group of contributors—Nuno da Luz, Yiannis Papadopoulos, Campus Novel, Cinema Fulgor (Portugal), Dulcinea Compania, and hiboux ARCHITECTURE—to create a series of site-specific contributions that explore the region’s delicate ecosystem and its cultural contexts. These contributions will take various forms, including a sound walk, a three-day workshop for fine arts students, and a film programme that encourages reflection on rural cinema and the ways in which we can come together around film far from urban centres. This multi-format programme invites both local and visiting participants to explore the fragile yet resilient landscape of Aitoliko, through collective experiences that blend art, ecology, and community.

Vanishing Landscapes is part of the Transformative Territories: performing transition through the arts European cooperation programme, which aims to redefine the significance of arts and transformative practices within our societies. Co-funded by the Creative Europe Programme of the European Union,  it is supported by the National Bank of Greece, Municipality of Sacred Town Messolonghi, Heinrich-Böll Stiftung Thessaloniki and Institut Français de Grèce.

Messolonghi - Aitoliko Lagoon House (Source: D. Eleftheriadis, commons.wikimedia.org)

Messolonghi - Aitoliko Lagoon Boat (Source: D. Eleftheriadis, commons.wikimedia.org)

Aitoliko, often referred to as the "Little Venice of Greece," is a town in Aitoloakarnania, Western Greece, located about ten kilometers northwest of the historic Sacred Town of Messolonghi. It is built on a small island in the middle of the Aitoliko-Messolonghi lagoon and is connected to the mainland on both the east and west by two stone arched bridges, each approximately 300 meters long. Historically, the town was known as "Anatolikon" before and during the Greek Revolution of 1821. The first recorded mention was made by the Spanish-Jewish traveler Benjamin of Tudela in 1153 AD, who referred to it as "Natolikon", likely a variation of "Anatolikon" (Eastern), because it was the easternmost lagoon islet of the Echinades Islands or possibly due to its location to the east of the Acheloos River.

Aitoliko Lagoon - Flamenco birds (Source: (Source: T. Lachanas, commons.wikimedia.org)

The Messolonghi-Etoliko lagoon is the largest in Greece and one of the largest in the Mediterranean. Because of the geomorphology of the area that has been changed after human intervention in the period of 1960-1995, nowadays the area consists of a system of six separate lagoons that present different natural characteristics. They extend over 15.000 ha while the broader area of the biotope includes coastal ecosystems, swamps, salterns and reclaimed areas which are now used for cultivation. The lagoon is formed between the estuaries of Acheloos and Evinos, is classified as Environmental Park and is protected by the Ramsar Treaty (Source: visitgreece.gr). 

Vasso Katraki working at her studio, (Source: etoliko.gr) (left), The debt of Antigone, Stonecut, 103x103 cm (Source: Vasso Katraki Museum – Printmaking Art Centre)

Vasso Katraki (Leonardou) (1914 - 1988) was a major figure in Modern Greek art and printmaking. Born in 1914 in Aitoliko, she studied painting with K. Parthenis and printmaking with Y. Kefallinos at the Athens School of Fine Arts (1936-1940). She was among the students of Kefallinos who created the famous War posters in 1940-41. Soon after, she became involved in the Greek Resistance, illustrating many illegal printed materials of the era with her woodcuts. In 1949, she co-founded the art group Stathmi. Her first solo exhibition (Athens, 1955) marked a decisive shift in her technique, cutting her works directly into stone rather than wood. The development and perfection of this entirely personal technique became an integral part of her printmaking practice.

Her art covers a wide range of subjects, from everyday scenes to mythological allegories, reflecting her social awareness and deeply humanitarian inclinations. Her aesthetics are strongly rooted in Greek tradition, yet she ventured into daring abstract schematizations, which over time grew increasingly intense through the contrast of black and white. During her exile to Yaros island (under the dictatorship of 1967), she expressed herself by painting pebbles with blank ink. Her most mature works, dated after 1970, are large prints featuring clean-cut, monumental forms that she carved into sandstone and printed on white paper.

Vasso Katraki, Inquisition, Stonecut, 100x115 cm (Source: Vasso Katraki Museum – Printmaking Art Centre) (left), Waiting I, 1971, Stonecut (sandstone), 106x76 cm, (Source: Athens National Gallery), (right)

Katraki presented her work in over 20 solo exhibitions in Greece and abroad and participated in group exhibitions and international art fairs, such as the Ljubljana Biennial (1956, 1977), the Tokyo Biennale (1960, 1970), the São Paulo Biennale (1957), and the Venice Biennale (1966), where she was honored with the International Lithography Award, ‘Tamarind’. In 1958, she won 1^st prize in printmaking at the Alexandria Biennale and the Lugano Biennale (Premium ex æquo). In 1965, she became an honorary member of L'Accademia Fiorentina delle Arti del Disegno, and in 1976, she received 1^st prize at the International Exhibition Intergrafik (East Berlin). In 1980, she presented a retrospective exhibition at the Athens National Art Gallery. After her death in 1988, numerous honorary retrospective exhibitions and tributes have been organized in her honor.

(Source: Contemporary Greek Art Institute)

Vasso Katraki Museum – Printmaking Art Centre in Aitoliko

In 1995, the Vasso Katraki Museum – Printmaking Art Centre was established in Aitoliko and opened in 2006, featuring a permanent exhibition of her complete body of work. The engraver bequeathed all of her works to her hometown, which are now permanently housed in one of the museum’s halls. The museum’s second large hall occasionally hosts other exhibitions and events. Additionally, the basement of the museum has been designed to eventually function as a School of Engraving.

Vasso Katraki Museum – Printmaking Art Centre in Aitoliko

Also read: Greek Ramsar Wetlands

“Democracy” exhibition at the National Gallery | Interview with Syrago Tsiara

I.A.

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Foreign investment groups expressed their strong interest in Greece’s Offshore Wind Farms (OWF) during the event organized by the Hellenic Hydrocarbons and Energy Resources Management Company (HEREMA), in the context of this year's 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29), hosted in Baku, Azerbaijan between 11 and 22 November.

The event took place on 14 November at the Greek Pavilion of COP29 and started with a fireside chat between Greece’s Deputy Minister of Environment and Energy, Alexandra Sdoukou, Belgium’s Minister of Energy, Tinne Van der Straeten, and CEO of WindEurope Giles Dickson, which was moderated by the Chairman of the HEREMA BoD, Rikard Scoufias.

Ms. Sdoukou referred to the Greek State’s next steps regarding the implementation of National Offshore Wind Farm (OWF) Development Programme, setting as priorities the signing of the relevant Joint Ministerial Decision that will finalize the Organized Areas Development (OWFODA); engaging with local communities; and collecting necessary data from the upcoming wind and bathymetric surveys.

Ms. Van der Straeten highlighted the importance of offshore wind for Belgium, a country with a strong industry but lacking domestic energy resources. The minister explained that despite Belgium's small coastline, her country has already succeeded in developing offshore wind farms with a capacity of 2.2GW, ranking second globally in terms of wind capacity per capita.

The event’s second panel, moderated by the CEO of HEREMA Aristofanis Stefatos, comprised members of the investment community, who confirmed their interest in the Greek market – as per relevant statements from the representatives of Masdar and Iberdrola. “We want to expand into offshore wind, leveraging the expertise of Terna Energy in the sector,” said Abdulaziz Alobaidli, Chief Operation Officer of Masdar, praising Greece’s National Programme for the Development of OWF.

Gonzalo Saenz de Miera, Global Director of Climate Change and Alliances at Iberdrola, also referred to the country’s attractive investment prospects, highlighting the advantages that Greece offers in the OWF sector, such as the three key conditions to attract further investment interest: minimization of business risk during the development phase; State support schemes and necessary clarity to facilitate the financing of projects; and creation of a local supply chain.

 On his part, Konstantinos Mavros, CEO of PPC Renewables, shared that the pilot OWF project under development in Alexandroupolis will set the tone for future investments. He also added that the relevant studies (seabed, environmental, etc.) have already been launched, estimating that implementation will start within the next 18 months. 

In closing, Astrid Rusås Kristoffersen, Director Group Research & Development of DNV, estimated that 72% of the total demand for green energy by 2050 will be for wind farms – onshore and offshore, either fixed-based or floating.

Greece's National Offshore Wind Farm Development Programme

The draft of the National Offshore Wind Farm (OWF) Development Programme was announced in late 2023 by the Hellenic Hydrocarbons and Energy Resources Management Company (HEREMA) and the Ministry of Environment and Energy.

The offshore wind program, which includes a strategic environmental impact assessment (SEIA), delineates 25 areas for OWF development, covering a total of 2,712 square kilometers, with an estimated minimum capacity of 12.4 GW. The majority of the proposed offshore areas are also suitable for floating wind power technology.

“We feel proud knowing that the submission of the program and the SEIA is the first step on a path that will create important opportunities for sustainable development, both economically and socially, and also optimistic to see the strong representation of the national and international investor community at today’s event. We are already preparing for the next steps in order to create the right framework for the rapid development of this new sector,” HEREMA’s CEO Aristofanis Stefatos said.

The plan, which has already been submitted to the Spatial Planning Directorate of the Ministry of Environment and Energy, qualifies ten eligible areas for development by 2030-2032. The overall capacity of approximately 4.9 GW is mainly for floating projects. The said zones do not include the marine area between Evros and Samothraki, which is defined as an area for the development of pilot offshore wind projects. Five regions selected for the first stage:

This is the list of Offshore Wind Farms Organized Development Areas (OWF-ODA) eligible for the medium-term development phase:

• Eastern Crete, where it is estimated that projects with a total capacity of 800 MW will be developed;
• Southern Rhodes, with a maximum installed capacity of between 300 MW and 550 MW;
• Central Aegean, with a maximum installed capacity of between 200 MW and 450 MW;
• Evia-Chios axis, with a maximum installed capacity of 300 MW;
• Ionian Sea, with a maximum installed capacity of 450 MW.

The areas will be developed in two phases, but with the goal of at least 2 GW of offshore wind energy capacity by 2030. In addition to releasing its draft plan, the Greek government has also proceeded with issuing the first two licenses for pilot projects in the north Aegean. The licenses apply to the offshore area extending south of the coastline of the Regional Unit of Evros and north-northeast of Samothrace and are defined as an area for the development of pilot OWF projects with a total capacity of up to 600MW.

“Greece has an extremely strong offshore potential, mainly thanks to its climate and its strategic position on Europe’s energy map,” said Minister of Environment and Energy Theodoros Skylakakis. “The development of offshore wind farms will contribute, first and foremost, to ensuring our energy autonomy, but also to achieving the ambitious target of 12 GW by 2040-2045, making Greece a major green energy exporting country.”

In the past few years, Greece has ramped up renewable energy sources, which now account for more than 50% of the country’s power generation and is helping Greece export electricity to its neighbors in Southeast Europe. Combined with the development of its cross-border interconnections, Greece is emerging as an energy hub in the region.

In July 2022, parliament approved the country’s first law for offshore wind development, spurring interest from foreign investors. Among them, Norwegian energy giant Equinor has said it wants to invest in Greek offshore wind facilities while other major players, like Copenhagen Offshore Partners from Denmark, have entered into agreements with local companies for the joint development of offshore wind farms in Greece.

In a recent survey by consultancy EY, Greece was named as one of the world’s most dynamic investment destinations for renewable energy – and even the world’s top destination – as the government continues to rapidly promote the country’s clean energy transition.

Benefits of EUR 1.9 billion for the economy

In addition, HEREMA commissioned the Foundation for Economic and Industrial Research (IOBE) to conduct a study on the economic benefits of the development of offshore wind in Greece. It includes the assessment of the importance of developing a domestic supply chain for their construction and operation.

According to the study, the deployment of offshore wind can boost the gross domestic product by up to EUR 1.9 billion per year on average over the period 2024-2050 while annual government revenues can rise up to EUR 440 million, said George Maniatis, Head of IOBE’s Sectoral Studies Department. Over the same period, it can make a significant contribution to employment, supporting up to 44,400 jobs per year.

The Hellenic Wind Energy Association (HWEA/ELETAEN) said the national program is a positive step for the development of the sector. However, mistakes made in onshore wind must not be repeated, it warned. ΗWEA added that a flexible licensing system must be applied together with the rapid construction of international power interconnections to make the most of this opportunity.

See also from Greek News Agenda

• Greece Unveils Revised National Energy and Climate Plan: Aiming for Carbon Neutrality by 2050
• Forty Greek islands are going “green”

Read more:

• Study for the Supply Chain for Offshore Wind Farms in Greece, Final Report
• Status & Challenges for the supply chain for Offshore Wind in Greece

I.L., with information from HEREMA, Enterprise Greece.

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On the western edge of the Peloponnese peninsula, in the region of Elis, on the southern foothills of the Erymanthos mountain range, about 25 km from ancient Olympia and a 3-hour drive from Athens, lies a natural wonder, the Foloi oak forest.

At an altitude of 630 meters and covering 42,000 acres, Foloi is the only oak forest in the Balkans and one of the largest and oldest in Europe. Its trees change with the seasons, offering a riot of colors and a spectacle that captivates all travelers. Its mysterious beauty inspired the mythical tale that the forest was inhabited by Centaurs, half-human half-horse creatures, until they Heracles killed them all while hunting after the Erymanthian boar (for his fourth labour).

The forest of the Centaurs

Legend has it that the forest of Foloi owes its name to the centaur Folos, who lived there. Folos offered shelter to Heracles while he was searching for the Erymanthe boar. At the meal, Heracles had asked for some wine and Folos, initially hesitant, was finally persuaded to open the jar of old centaur wine, provoking the wrath of the other centaurs.

Attracted by the scent of wine, the Centaurs came to Folos’s house and tried to steal it; a battle broke out in which Heracles killed many of them, using his arrows dipped in the poisonous blood of the Lernaean Hydra (a monster killed in a previous labour). Folos, removing one of the arrows from the body of a wounded Centaur, inadvertently dropped it on his hoof, and dies as well. Heracles prepared for him a majestic funeral pyre and named the forest after him.

Foloi's remarkable ecosystem

The forest, unique in the Balkan region, is also known as “the balcony of Elis”, thanks to the breathtaking view it offers from the edge of the plateau.

The deciduous oak Quercus frainetto, commonly known as the Hungarian oak, is the main species in the forest and covers most of its territory. The trees are 15 to 20 m tall and can live up to 200 years. The evergreen Quercus pubescens and Quercus ilex are also present, although their populations are much smaller. In addition to oaks, ferns, mushrooms and asphodels are very common and tend to grow in the space between tree trunks.

Acorns are an abundant source of food for animals such as hares, squirrels and hedgehogs, which can be found in large populations. The forest ecosystem also includes badgers, pine martens, foxes, eagles, tortoises, weasels, owls, skylarks, jackals, magpies, vipers, garter snakes and others.

This myth-filled plateau, part of the Natura 2000 protected areas network, is a stunning site crossed by Erymanthos and Ladon rivers. The flat terrain and easy trails make the forest ideal for hiking and biking.

Exciting activities and spectacular scenery

The Environmental Museum of Foloi is not only a place to discover the history of the region, but also to get valuable advice on the most beautiful hiking trails in the forest. In fact, the spectacular M3 trail starts here, heading for the Erymanthos Gorge, in an impressive setting of arched stone bridges, dreamy watermills and small caves.

The magnificent Gravata trail, eight kilometers long, can be covered in 2 hours and is very popular. It owes its name to the 300 dress ties (gravata in Greek) attached to the trees to designate the paths.

Among those who visit the forest every year are mushroom pickers, since the area has an abundance of mushrooms. The neighboring mountain villages of Foloi and Koumani are known for their taverns, while 12 km away, on the slopes of mount Erymanthos and at an altitude of over 800 meters, lies Lampeia (or Divri), one of the most beautiful villages in the Peloponnese, with neighborhoods at different altitudes and traditional houses that take you back in time.

Translated from the original article which appeared on Grèce Hebdo (Intro image source: Visit Greece)

Read also via Greek News Agenda: Nymfaio | The Northern Greek village straight out of a fairytale

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This year, Greece hosts the 9th Our Ocean Conference. The Conference takes place in Athens, at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, on the 16th and 17th of April.

By hosting the 9th Our Ocean Conference Greece reaffirms its commitment to transition to a “Blue economy” to harness the advantages of a new balance between economic development (growth), social cohesion, and sustainability as well as addressing some key challenges such as biodiversity loss, climate change, unsustainable fishing, marine pollution especially from plastics, and unsustainable maritime transport.

Greece and the sea

Throughout its history, Greece owes much of its potential and achievements to the sea. By mastering the marine element, Greeks became successful sea merchants and explorers who colonized the entire Mediterranean over 3,000 years ago. Continuing this tradition of seafaring for over three millennia, the Greek commercial fleet is presently the leading fleet in the world, setting an example in green shipping too.

Greece is a country inextricably linked to the sea, historically, culturally, economically, and socially. Its extensive coastline and countless islands and islets, as well as its rich maritime heritage dating back to ancient times, render Greece a maritime nation positioned at the crossroads of three continents. The country’s economic landscape is significantly shaped by maritime activities such as shipping and tourism. Almost 20% of the world merchant fleet in terms of tonnage capacity is of Greek ownership. Tourism, on the other hand, contributes more than 20% of the country’s GDP constituting the backbone of its economy. Fisheries and aquaculture are also important maritime activities.

Our Ocean Greece 2024 presents an opportunity for all stakeholders to join forces in delivering accelerated, transformative action. By coordinating our efforts and acting in a timely manner, we can achieve more than ever before and pave the way for even better outcomes in Nice 2025. By fulfilling our responsibilities towards the ocean, we ensure that our world can continue to accommodate and nourish life for generations to come, enabling us to live and thrive for the country.

Hosting the conference in Athens is not only a strategic choice but a symbolic recognition of the Mediterranean’s pivotal role in shaping the dialogue on ocean conservation. This return to the Mediterranean marks a renewed commitment to foster collaboration and innovation in a region where the convergence of diverse cultures meets the common responsibility to safeguard the ocean for the well-being and livelihoods of present and future generations.

Areas of Actions

• Marine Protected Areas

An effectively managed network of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) with well-defined conservation measures that address the pressures of ocean-based activities, such as tourism, shipping, fishing, and aquaculture, is an essential instrument for safeguarding biodiversity and maintaining marine ecosystems.​

• Sustainable Blue Economies

Blue economy can serve as a key tool to achieve sustainable use of the ocean and marine resources for sustainable growth of economic sectors that rely on the ocean, such as tourism, shipping, fishing and offshore wind energy, that will bring prosperity and employment creation, while preserving ocean ecosystem health.

• Climate Change

Strengthening the nexus between the ocean and climate change is of paramount importance for bringing forth solutions in a holistic manner. Ocean plays a key role as climate regulator and can serve as a vehicle for clean transition, whilst climate actions aim to preserve a healthy state of the ocean.​

• Maritime Security

Safeguarding the ocean from piracy, illegal trafficking of goods and people, illegal fishing and pollution and other illegal activities at sea is a key challenge that needs to be effectively addressed and to bring about innovative and creative efforts to improve maritime security.​

• Sustainable Fisheries

To reap the benefits of a resilient ocean, it is essential to incorporate sustainable fisheries policies though adequate fishing methods, surveillance of prohibitions and restrictions and other integral solutions to effectively tackle overfishing that poses a direct threat to marine biodiversity.​

• Marine Pollution

Marine pollution, such as eutrophication, marine litter, and chemical pollution, occurs from either seaborne or land-based activities and imposes significant threat to the ocean health. A more holistic approach with joint efforts is crucial to prevent and control anthropogenic pollution that ends up in the ocean.​

The Our Ocean Youth Leadership Summit

The Our Ocean Youth Leadership Summit, in partnership with Sustainable Ocean Alliance, coinciding with the 9th Our Ocean Conference in Athens on April 15, 2024, signifies a commitment to involve and empower the next generation in tackling key challenges in areas like Marine Protected Areas, Sustainable Blue Economy, Climate-Ocean Nexus, Maritime Security, Sustainable Fisheries, and Marine Pollution. Greece will focus on sustainable tourism, green shipping, marine plastic reduction, and the green transition in the Mediterranean.

The summit aims to empower youth by emphasizing on education, employability, and sustainable practices across conference themes. It particularly concentrates on upskilling, reskilling, and fostering ocean awareness to address challenges and opportunities. The focus is on comprehensive educational initiatives, including STEM education, marine sciences, and sustainable resource management.

Highlighting the dynamic nature of ocean-related sectors, the summit stresses the significance of upskilling and reskilling programs for emerging fields like marine biotechnology and sustainable fisheries. It aims to create an adaptable workforce through continuous learning, contributing to the sustainable development of ocean-related industries.

At its core, the summit promotes ocean awareness, emphasizing the interdependence between oceans and humanity. It actively engages in educational campaigns, workshops, and programs to enhance environmental initiatives among youth, raising awareness about oceans’ ecological significance and economic opportunities.

As a platform for Youth-led Solutions, the summit fosters innovative ideas and commitments, shaping an informed, skilled, and passionate generation dedicated to oceans’ well-being. Guided by comprehensive objectives, it addresses challenges and opportunities in diverse ocean-related sectors, actively involving youth in shaping the future of Our Ocean.

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Mighty Afrin: in the Time of Floods is a coming-of-age story unfolding against the backdrop of climate change. In this emotionally powerful film, a 13-year-old girl is forced to leave her home on a remote islet because of the catastrophic floods and find her way to the metropolis of Dhaka in search of a new life.

Director Angelos Rallis, challenging the barriers between documentary and fiction, in this immersive film, focuses on the violent uprooting of climate refugees through the story of resilient Afrin, an orphan girl who struggles to survive in unthinkable circumstances, as the Brahmaputra River wipes out her home. Winner of several awards worldwide, Mighty Afrin: in the Time of Floods is now screening in Athens and next month in Thessaloniki.

Angelos Rallis spoke to Greek News Agenda* about shooting in Bangladesh, climate change, and his future plans.

Mighty Afrin: In the Time of Floods was shot in Bangladesh? How come?

All my films have been shot in distant countries. A Place for All was shot in Rwanda, Where Are You Singal was shot in Iraq and Turkey. Mighty Afrin: in the Time of Floods was shot in Bangladesh.

My father used to work for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. His assignments in Greek embassies brought us into contact with different places and cultures around the world. I was born in Sweden, as were my siblings Katerina and George, where we lived the first years of our lives. We also spent a long time in Asia and Europe and we embarked on endless round trips to distant countries that were hard to discover at the time.

Gradually I became acquainted with the locals and their stories, stories about 'others' that we don't often see in the media. My mother Eva had encouraged me from a young age to take photos as she had noticed an inclination. She also worked as a teacher in orphanages. Influenced by my father’s work and my mother’s humanism, I began to be interested in the distant, the unknown.

I studied sociology and cinema in Greece, Sweden and England. I started working as a photojournalist for news agencies in England (Eaglepress), Belgium (reporters) and the newspaper Ethnos. I belong to the artists who use their lens to discover a story, to get in touch and connect with characters. It is the experience that interests me. I don't just want to tell a story but to live the experience and bring it to the audience through the big screen.

Could you share with us more about the young protagonist, the culture of the locals you interacted with, and the difficulties you faced while shooting the movie?

Social norms make women more vulnerable to flooding. Natural disasters magnify existing gender inequalities and widen the gap between rich and poor.

Afrin's struggle against the floods is becoming a symbol of survival representing millions of children and young people in the same situation. When she begins her risky journey across the country, Afrin is one of the many displaced children and climate refugees who make a living as waste-pickers in Dhaka. Afrin was a child living in the wilderness who had found a way to survive on an island of mud without basic commodities. Being an orphan gave her the freedom to decide for herself. Afrin is young and impetuous, full of dreams and desires. When her house is destroyed by floods, Afrin is displaced on her raft to Dhaka.

The difficulties of filming were enormous. On the island, I worked almost alone with my assistant and occasionally with a sound engineer for months without electricity, forced to film in the muddy water. I quickly had to adapt to an inhospitable environment where we were all at the mercy of nature. Every now and then I would stop filming to carry people to the shore in a small boat. The humidity was unbearable. Plus, it’s not just people seeking shelter but also animals like pythons and jackals. It was important for me to experience the dangers, bad weather and floods so that I could film them. 

The protagonists of the film have to deal with unthinkable situations. How do they cope with these adversities?

During the monsoon period, thousands of tiny islands, scattered along the Brahmaputra, move or even disappear. Millions of people are forced to move from one islet to another or abandon their homes. Their resilience and adaptation to new circumstances is what helps them survive.  These communities have learned to adapt because extreme poverty gives them no choice.

Is your film considered fiction or documentary?

Just like my previous works, it falls right between these two categories. The first part, on the island, is observational because it can better capture the violence of nature, while in the second part, I choose to get closer to the protagonist, Afrin, with close-ups and controlled shooting. This is right when Afrin begins to transform from a teenager into a woman. The film reaches its climax in a mystical situation where Afrin's dreams merge with reality. For me, there are no rules and boundaries that I have to follow. In Afrin I chose to use fictional elements (VFX, music, flashbacks) to bring out the theme of the film, not the form. It is also important to remember that even a documentary can never be truly objective. 

Do you think that art in general and cinema in particular could be an effective means of raising awareness of social and environmental issues?

Audiovisual works can and do have the potential not only to entertain but also to stimulate the public to focus on important issues in our everyday lives.  We can already see the devastating consequences of the climate crisis.  A film like Mighty Afrin: in the Time of Floods highlights this issue. It is something that concerns all of us and I hope we can public awareness.

 Do you believe that the art world should take a stand on big or controversial issues?

The art world over time can and should be an educational tool and should take a stand on big or controversial issues such as human rights, LGTB+ inequality, war, violence, the climate crisis, and the refugee crisis. If we don't use films as a means of educating society, I am afraid that the whole edifice will fall apart and we will be crushed.

How do you see the future of Greek cinema, both within and outside our borders?

Greek cinema has indeed shown an outward-looking trend over the last decade and several Greek films have made remarkable progress. In just 7 months of distribution, Afrin in the Time of the Flood has screened at 40 international festivals and won 14 international awards (Giffoni, Thessaloniki, Jihlava). It has also screened in cinemas in Italy and Greece and on television in France (ARTE), Germany (ZDF), ERT and by Al Jazeera in the Middle East. This practically means that millions of people have had access to and watched a Greek film. 

But ministries in charge should also support this effort of extroversion of artists in our country. Although the regulation and the funds have increased, unfortunately, they are still far below the average of other European countries. There is also the phenomenon that although the new funding regulation provides for specific amounts of financial support, these amounts are not able to cover the production and promotion of the film to be able to compete in the global markets.

Tell us about your next plans.

There are several projects such as a film about climate crisis in Greece and another science fiction film. Shooting a film in Greece interests me but is not an end in itself. It depends on the story and how I connect with it.

*Interview by Dora Trogadi

Read also via Greek News Agenda: Spiros Jacovides on his movie “Black Stone”; Asimina Proedrou on her film “Behind the Haystacks”; Thanasis Neofotistos on his film “Air Ηostess-737”

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ARCTUROS, one of the most recognizable Greek environmental NGOs, was founded in 1992 with a focus on the protection of wildlife fauna and its natural habitat; specifically on the preservation of the large wild carnivores that live in the Greek countryside, such as the bear and the wolf. The foundation of ARCTUROS was driven by the need to solve the problem of bear and wolf imprisonment, which was a common occurrence at the time. Other animals, such as the chamois, the otter, the deer, the roe deer, the jackal and the lynx, are also protected by ARCTUROS.

Besides the wildlife protection activities of ARCTUROS, priority has been given to scientific research, providing environmental education and raising public awareness on matters such as biodiversity and viability, while applying political pressure for change, based on programs and solutions.

Each year, ARCTUROS develops more activities; one pf the most important is the reproduction and perpetuation of the Greek shepherd dog. Besides the breeding program, the shepherd dogs are also distributed free of charge to farmers of the mountain country, contributing thus in the harmonious co-existence of humans and wildlife.

A timeline of ARCTUROS’ contributions

Since its inception in 1992 and for the past 23 years ARCTUROS has achieved significant milestones in safeguarding the welfare of animals and promoting environmental awareness.

In 1997, it played a pivotal role in bringing an end to the cruel practice of dancing bears, demonstrating a commitment to animal welfare. In the same year, the organization actively contributed to the prohibition of the use of animals by circuses in Greece.

In 1993, the organization initiated and managed special wildlife sanctuaries, dedicated to former captive bears and wolves. These sanctuaries, located in the areas of Nymfaio and Agrapidia at the municipality Florina,  serve as havens for these animals, promoting their well-being and rehabilitation.

ARCTUROS also operates information centers for the public, providing valuable resources and knowledge on wildlife conservation. The organization has actively participated in the Mediterranean program against the use of illegal and poisonous baits, addressing threats to wildlife in the region.

As part of its commitment to mitigating human-wildlife conflicts, ARCTUROS bred and donated Greek shepherd dogs to stock-breeders. This initiative aims to assist them in managing potential damages caused by bears or wolves in a more organic and effective manner.

In 2005, ARCTUROS established and maintains the National Bear Register, a groundbreaking initiative that collects bear DNA samples (hair) through specially designed traps placed on utility poles. This register contributes to the monitoring and conservation efforts for bear populations.

The NGO actively intervenes in highway alignment design and other types of construction projects that may have a negative environmental impact. The organization has also undertaken reforestation projects, upgrading bald woodland areas with the planting of 150,000 trees to date.

ARCTUROS n boasts a dedicated wildlife protection emergency crew, ready to respond to urgent conservation needs.  Furthermore, it has played a role in opening and revitalizing mountain trails, promoting sustainable and responsible outdoor recreation.

A highlight of ARCTUROS' global impact was hosting the 23rd International Conference on Bear Research and Management in 2014. This conference, the most significant in the field, was held for the first time in Greece and the Southeast Mediterranean, showcasing ARCTUROS' leadership in wildlife research and conservation.

Species Protected by ARCTUROS

Wolf

The wolf used to be the mammal with the biggest geographical distribution on the planet, covering nearly the whole of the northern hemisphere. Today, because of systematic hunting practices, a small population of would can be found in Portugal, Spain, Italy, the Scandinavian countries and eastern Europe. It has recently reappeared in France, Switzerland and Germany. In Greece, its distribution covers almost all of the country's mainland north of the area of Boeotia. It is estimated that there are 700 wolves in many small packs with no contact with one another, their presence being the strongest in areas with nomadic stock raising or areas with big mountain ranges without intense human activity.

Livestock depredation because of the decline of the wolf's natural prey population (deer, roe, wild boar) combined with the expansion of human activity even in the almost inaccessible, secluded areas (big construction projects, uncontrolled forest road networks, expansion of pastures) and the resulting reduction of forest areas, endanger the wolf's survival. Despite the strict State laws that are in force since 1991 forbidding their usage, the mangles and poisoned baits are still widespread practices of killing wolves.

Greek Shepherd Dog

The Greek shepherd dog has been bred in the mountainous regions for centuries, in order to guard the flocks. Its adaption to the harsh conditions of mountainous stock raising have helped it develop characteristics that make it an invaluable guardian, able to face the attacks of large carnivores such as the bear and the wolf. Today, this traditionally Greek dog breed is under danger of extinction due to the reduction of nomadic pastoralism and the uncontrolled interbreeding that has altered its characteristics. It is estimated that less than 3.000 purebred Greek shepherd dogs have remained. In an effort to preserve the breed, ARCTUROS runs the Greek Shepherd Dog Breeding Program since 1998.

The greatest threat to the shepherd dog’s life are poisoned baits.

Bear

The brown bear has the widest worldwide distribution of all species of bears. Today, bears are only found in northwestern North America, Europe and most of North Asia. In Greece there are an estimated 450 bears living in two independent populations, which are not geographically linked. The largest population lives in the Pindos Mountains, and the other in the Rhodope Mountains. In recent years there has been consistent evidence of the presence of bears in the mountain axis of Vora-Olympos and Central Greece, even down to the mountainous Nafpaktia, an area where there have been no sightings in the last 70 years.

The bear faces two types of threats; poaching and the extensive use of poisoned baits which result in the death of the animal, and fragmentation and loss of habitat via human intervention i.e the construction of large road projects, indiscriminate opening of forest roads, illegal logging, fires, and the installation of wind turbines and dams. Indicative of the problem is that since 2003 more than 50 bears have been killed in road accidents.

Otter

The Eurasian otter is a small animal that lives on the banks of rivers and lakes, and only where the water is very clean. It is considered one of the rarest and most endangered mammals in the continent. It is an important health indicator of mountain water so it is strictly protected by all the countries of the EU. The otter's diet consists 80% of fish, but also of amphibians, reptiles (water snakes), invertebrates (mostly crabs), birds and small mammals.

According to estimations, in Greece exists one of the densest and greatly expanded otter populations. In central Greece occurs a small splitting of the populations, while some isolated populations appear in the islands of Corfu and Evia.

The major threats in the life of the otter are the pollution of rivers and lakes, wetland drainage and hydroelectric dams, the destruction of riparian vegetation in lakes and rivers and the flooding of its natural habitat by artificial reservoirs in the rivers.

Deer

Deer are distributed in almost all of Europe, Northern Africa, most of the mountain ranges of Southern Asia, Siberia, the Far East and Northern America. In Greece, their numbers used to be high throughout the country; unfortunately, today they can only be found in the mountain of Parnitha and in Rhodopi and Epirus in small concentrations. The population of the Red Deer has been reduced so much (about 600 animals remain) that the species is considered to be near extinction and considered as 'Critically Endangered' according to the Red Book of Endangered Species in Greece.

Illegal hunting is the most serious threat for the deer, as well he intervention on and degradation of its natural habitat by human activity and wildfires.

Roe Deer

It is the smallest species of deers. It can live in various forest habitats (deciduous or mixed conifer forests) and occurs in big numbers in central and northern Europe. In Greece, only small populations of roe deer have been left at the mountainous regions of the mainland. The species is now characterized as 'vulnerable', meaning that if it continues being exterminated it will soon face extinction. Illegal hunting and degradation of its natural habitat due to human activity such as illegal felling are the biggest threats roe deer face.

Lynx

Jackal

The Jackal belongs to the canine family and can be found in Europe (mostly the Balkans), in Asia and Africa. It is a small mammal that, despite its ominous reputation, feeds of plants and fruit. In Greece, estimations show that the jackal population does not exceed the number of 1.500 animals.

These are limited to isolated populations in eastern Macedonia and Thrace, Halkidiki, the coastal area of Fokida, Pelo A crucial reason causing the dramatic reduction of the jackal population is hunting.

The jackal is the only medium-sized mammal whose number has suffered such a rapid decline in Greece in the recent years. Other factors contributing to that are the destruction of its natural habitat due to fires and other anthropogenic interventions.

The myth behind the name

Arcturus is the brightest star in the northern constellation of Boötes, its name a Latinised from the ancient Greek Ἀρκτοῦρος (Arcturos) meaning "Guardian of the Bear”,  from ἄρκτος (arktos), "bear" and οὖρος (ouros), "watcher, guardian." Behind the name lies a story from Greek mythology:

Callisto was the daughter of Lycaon, king of Arcadia. She was still a little girl, when she swore eternal loyalty to goddess Artemis (Diana). She took a vow to remain virgin and promised to follow and serve only the goddess, therefore she moved to reside in the woods, hunting wild beasts. Zeus saw her once and fell for her and in order to seduce her, he took the form of Artemis, the goddess she had vowed to serve. By doing so, he managed to sleep with her. The fruit of this love, was a boy named Arcas. Zeus knew that his companion Juno (Hera) would be furious, and would punish Callisto. Thus, he decided to turn Callisto into a bear. She was wandering into the woods for years, in search of her son.

When she finally found him, all grown up, she wanted to hold him in her arms. Not knowing she was his mother, Arcas attempted to kill her. Feeling sorry for them and in order to prevent matricide, Zeus turned both of them into stars, Ursa Major (the Great Bear) and Ursa Minor (the Little Bear), and took them with him into the sky. Angry Juno then requested from Ocean, the river that surrounds the Earth, never to let them wash into his waters. That is why these two stars never set. Finally, Zeus placed a guardian star, ARCTUROS, by their side to protect them from Juno's jealousy. His name means guardian of the bear, and he is to accompany and protect through eternity.

The Bear Conservation Area and the the Bear Information Center at Nymfaio, as well as the Wolf & Lynx Conservation Area at Agrapidies, Florina can be visited. You can find out more on the ARCTUROS organization and their activities through their Facebook, Instagram and YouTube accounts.

I.L.

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Eleni “Lenio” Myrivili is Global Chief Heat Officer to UN Habitat and the Arsht Rock Resilience Center, working to build heat resilience in cities around the world. She is also one of the experts on the EU Mission Board for Adaptation of the European Commission.  “It is a profound honor to take on the role of Global Chief Heat Officer. I am eager to coordinate the collaboration between Arsht-Rock and UN-Habitat to elevate the issue of heat in cities worldwide,” said Eleni Myrivili, formerly Athen’s Chief Heat Officer. “Through this partnership, we will advance solutions that protect communities and create a cooler, more livable future.”   From this position of UN Global Chief Heat Officer, Myrivili is tasked with helping cities across the world prepare for extreme heat and respond better when it arrives.

Previrously, Eleni Myrivili, who holds a Ph.D. in Anthropology from Columbia University, has spent years studying this issue in her hometown of Athens, which is one of the cities hardest hit by rising temperatures. In 2014, she was elected Deputy Mayor of Athens for Urban Nature and Climate Resilience and, after a stay at Harvard University to investigate urban resilience to high temperatures, she returned to Greece to become the first chief heat officer in a European city.  A recognized voice in Heat Resilience, Eleni Myrivili was invited to deliver a TED Talk Global in March 2022. She held a tenured position at the University of the Aegean and she has been featured in prominent international media, including the New York Times and was named one of Politico’s 28 most influential Europeans for 2022.

This December she was featured in “Nature’s 10,” the scientific magazine’s annual list of the ten people who helped shape science in 2023.  According to Nature, “Myrivili is focused on raising awareness of extreme heat at the global level, and on securing money for projects through the auspices of UN Habitat, the program that works towards making cities sustainable. That includes a global-cooling pledge introduced at the COP28 climate conference in Dubai this month. It aims to support the development and roll-out of cooling technologies that do not add to greenhouse-gas emissions.”

As Reuters reports, during November's COP28 climate meeting, Myrivili called on political leaders to make firm commitments at to stem rapidly rising temperatures in cities, particularly in poorer countries. "This was a really bad summer for heat, for people and for ecosystems and for agriculture and for economies," Myrivili said in an interview at the Reuters IMPACT conference in London. "In July, we had these crazy heat domes in almost all of the Northern Hemisphere. It really felt like something was different, it felt like a turning point"

"I'm really hoping this COP is going to be more of a decisive COP in turning away from generalities ... and really moving fast forward with stopping greenhouse gas emissions and stopping deforestation and figuring out how to create a much sustainable agriculture and sustainable animal husbandry."  As she mentioned she was most concerned about cities in poorer countries that do not have the capacity, the architectural expertise or the funds to make significant changes. "That's the really scary thing," she said. "That's the thing I'm really worried about. There are a lot of countries that have a lot of informal housing, a lot of informal labour and a lot of poverty, and that's where heat becomes the real killer."

Talking to the Guardian last year, Myrivili stressed that is “shocking” how little people know about the danger of hot weather.  A study this month found that extreme heat in Europe last summer killed 61,000 people, most of whom were women and older people. As well as killing people through heatstroke, hot weather can push the bodies of people with heart and lung disease into deadly overdrive. “It’s total cognitive dissonance that this information is not common knowledge or part of our collective subconscious,” pointing out that many people, particularly in the Mediterranean and Middle East, mistakenly believed they were used to hot weather and able to cope with it. “People are just starting to realize that this is another beast that we’re dealing with.”

Talking to El País on how big cities can cool down, Myrivili elaborated that “the most important thing is to bring nature to cities much more radically than before: nature and water are key to cooling them down. Trees not only provide shade, but also evapotranspire and recapture thermal energy, thus cooling the surrounding area as well. We also need shade, because it improves how we feel the heat. We have to make sure that our public spaces have more water, more shade and fewer cars, because cars are a problem in cities: they add heat, because they burn fossil fuels, and they emit hot air, just like air conditioning. Cars and air conditioning make our public space hotter. So we have to get rid of cars and use air conditioning to a minimum, particularly for people who need it. We also have to look for materials that are permeable to water, that do not absorb heat, and increase the shading of buildings and air circulation.”

I.L., with information from Arsht-Rock, Nature, Reuters, Guardian and El País

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Climate change is impacting Greece and the world, with rising temperatures, prolonged periods of drought and frequent and intense wildfires. These environmental shifts pose significant threats to the overall ecological balance of the Mediterranean, underscoring the urgent need for adaptive measures to mitigate escalating challenges.

In the battle against climate change, Greece has formed an ambitious plan to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Towards this goal, in 2019, the Greek government launched the GR-eco islands initiative, with the aim to transform the Greek islands into innovation hubs and models of green economy, energy autonomy, digital innovation and ecological mobility.

The GR-eco Initiative includes such actions as the increased use of Renewable Energy sources, the creation of digital infrastructure, the promotion of energy efficiency, the sustainable management of waste and water, e—mobility and the electrification of transport, and the green transformation of agriculture and tourism. To strengthen collaboration between the public and the private sectors, the GR-Eco Islands Initiative operates within the framework of public-private partnerships (PPP).

Chalki became Greece’s first GR-eco island, and aspires to become a model of energy transition, with the local community being at the forefront of energy transition. The Municipality of Chalki established the Energy Community “ChalkiON”. The installation of a 1 MW Photovoltaic plant and the use of the virtual-net-metering model (VNM), provide clean energy to the island's residents transforming Chalki to the first energy self-sufficient island of Greece.

Another innovative project is being implemented in Astypalea. In 2020, the Greek government made a groundbreaking agreement with the Volkswagen Group to establish a state-of-the-art mobility system on the island, unique in the whole Mediterranean region. The ambitious project aims at both public and private transportation through a shared e-mobility model.

During the recent COP28 Summit, Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced that the island of Poros would be the third island joining the GR-eco island initiative in cooperation with the UAE’s state-owned green energy company Masdar. Unveiling the plan, Prime Minister Mitsotakis stressed that Poros’ transformation into a green island is based on four pillars: First, the installation of a photovoltaic plant and the upgrading of the grid to cover a significant part of the island’s annual energy needs. Second, the electrification of the ferry link between Poros and Galata on the mainland, which will involve the deployment of a fully electric ferry, the electrification of part of the existing passenger fleet and the installation of charging infrastructure in the two ports. Third, the stimulation of the electrification in public transport and for private transport and travel. And fourth, the development of a new waste management and recycling system.

In addition to the GR-eco island initiative, a renewable energy revolution is also taking place on the remote island of Tilos, situated north west of the island of Rhodes, where the first hybrid power station in Greece was created utilizing energy from both wind farms and solar power generators. The pioneering European research Project TILOS (Technology Innovation for the Local Scale), has transformed the small island into an energy self-sufficient community, significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuel-based electricity generation. Additionally, Tilos can garner profit by selling its excess energy. Lastly, in Agios Efstratios, 85% of the local energy comes from wind turbines and photovoltaics.

On the occasion of the COP28 Summit, it is worth noting that in 2022 Greece adopted its first National Climate Change Law, which set ambitious intermediate targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, as well as a carbon budgeting mechanism. Furthermore, Greece’s latest National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) raises the country’s target for renewable energy to 28 GW by 2030, aiming to achieve 80% penetration of renewables in the country’s energy mix by 2030. Greece is already implementing a plan to de-lignite the country's energy mix. As a result, in May 2023, Renewable Energy Sources (RES) accounted for more than half of the energy mix, with 54% of total electricity demand being met by solar, wind and hydro sources, while in 2022  Greece was in 7th place worldwide in terms of utilization of solar and wind energy sources.

The importance Greece places on green transition is reflected in the National Recovery and Resilience Plan "Greece 2.0" (2021-2026), where 37.5% of the Plan supports climate objectives aiming to increase the share of RES in Greece’s energy mix.
Regarding the islands, the main goal is the electrical interconnection of Greece's largest islands by 2030 and a hybrid system ensuring 80% greenhouse gas reduction for the smaller islands. Lastly, firmly committed to the protection of Oceans, and aiming to strengthen cooperation for collective action on all major issues affecting Oceans, Greece will host the 9th "Our Ocean Conference" in Athens on April 16-17, 2024

This is an article taken from Greece In America, the official newsletter of the Embassy of Greece in Washington

Read also via Greek News Agenda: Chalki, the first Gr-Eco Island; Forty Greek islands are going "green"; "Just Go Zero Tilos": Greece’s first zero-waste island; Greece’s renewable energy landscape

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