Current status update on activities in Greece
In this article, we take a look at what has been done so far in Greece.
But first, a little back story. Our journey is fueled by the ambition to achieve a climate-neutral continent by 2050, fostering sustainability and empowering the youth to play a crucial role. In this endeavor, we aim to raise awareness about climate change, engage youth actively in sustainable living, and develop three comprehensive "Green Compass Maps." These maps, a culmination of eco-friendliness, will be shared amongst the public, contributing to the European Climate Pact's mission.
What Has Been Done So Far
The project has successfully gathered a diverse array of effective sustainable practices from various organizations in Greece.
Noteworthy initiatives include the Seed Bombing Athens by THE BEE CAMP NGO, an ongoing effort since 2019. Through interactive environmental workshops, participants create and distribute seed bombs, fostering urban biodiversity and supporting the vital role of bees in ecosystems.
The Vegan Life Festival, occurring annually since 2016, has emerged as the largest vegan festival in Europe. It promotes veganism, combats food waste, and builds a community of environmentally conscious youth.
Additionally, the Kerkini Lake Clean Up, conducted 2-3 times per year since May 2021, engages local communities in cleaning up areas near the lake. This initiative combines environmental awareness with festive celebrations.
Another commendable practice is Zero Waste Athens, an online community supporting zero waste lifestyles. The community organizes activities like swap bazaars, cooking workshops, and a zero waste music festival.
Glyptopia is an educational experiential workshop on natural building, reusing of building materials, climate change adaptation, and alternatives for energy efficiency. Participants craft building models with an emphasis on participatory design, using natural materials like straw, soil, and wood. This initiative educates youngsters on circular economy experientially and is easily replicable.
The Center of the Earth, operating since 2012, is an award-winning hub for environmental education. It serves as a functioning organic, urban, social farm, offering nature-based educational programs. The center engages young people in cultivating plants, cooking, and non-formal education activities, contributing to resilience to climate change.
These initiatives showcase the breadth and impact of sustainable practices, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and youth involvement in environmental stewardship.
Our next steps will include the finalization and launch of “Green Compass Maps” an online database housing green practices and eco-friendly organizations among the local communities of the consortium.
As we resume this journey, we express our deepest gratitude to our partners and the European Union who have made this possible. Stay tuned for more updates and join us in shaping the future!
