WELLNESS HUB
XpatAthens
Thursday, 10 May 2018 09:10
Family-Friendly Ways To Reduce Plastic Pollution In Greece
Interesting Facts About Plastic Pollution Worldwide
Plastic Free Greece is an organization that raises awareness amongst schools and communities in Greece about the harm of single-use plastic. The organization's mission is 'To raise awareness about the harm of plastic pollution in Greece and to break the habit of single-use plastic through education, by encouraging beach clean ups, and through petitions to effect change.'
Fight Against Plastic Pollution With These 4 Simple Steps
- 8.3 billion metric tons of plastic has been produced since plastic was introduced in the 1950s. The amount of plastic produced in a year is roughly the same as the entire weight of humanity.
- Nearly 2 million single-use plastic bags are distributed worldwide every minute.
- One million plastic bottles are bought every minute around the world — that number will top half a trillion by 2021. And less than half of those bottles end up getting recycled.
- 8 million metric tons of plastic winds up in our oceans each year. That’s enough trash to cover every foot of coastline around the world with five full trash bags of plastic…compounding every year.
- There is more microplastic in the ocean than there are stars in the Milky Way.
- If plastic production isn’t curbed, plastic pollution will outweigh fish pound for pound by 2050.
Plastic Free Greece
Plastic Free Greece is an organization that raises awareness amongst schools and communities in Greece about the harm of single-use plastic. The organization's mission is 'To raise awareness about the harm of plastic pollution in Greece and to break the habit of single-use plastic through education, by encouraging beach clean ups, and through petitions to effect change.'
Fight Against Plastic Pollution With These 4 Simple Steps
- Water Bottles - Students can pledge to bring re-fillable water bottles to school (and parents can bring them to work).
- Refill Greece Station - Students can convince at least 1 local shop (it can be a store, coffee shop, or anything with opening hours) to become a Refill Greece Station - all it requires is for the shop to place a sticker on its window to show that it will refill passersby' water bottles with potable tap water for free.
- 'Sto Potiri Mou' Network - Students can try and convince local coffee shops to become part of the "Sto Potiri Mou" network - these are coffee shops all over Greece that offer discounts on takeaway beverages if you bring your own refillable cup. Even better, also convince the shop to stop using plastic straws.
- Sign Plastic Free Greece's Petitions - Plastic Free Greece intends to lobby politicians, businesses and consumers to change their habits so as to reduce their plastic footprint. Click HERE to read and sign the petitions.
For more information and more ways to get involved, please visit: Plastic Free Greece
Facts Source: Earth Day
Facts Source: Earth Day
Published in
Local Environment
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Thursday, 25 February 2021 11:57
The City's Third "Pocket Park" Is In Pagrati
Pocket Parks are a new strategy for the use of public space, especially in areas that are abandoned and/or full of rubbish and rubble - instead a new park is created for the whole neighborhood to experience.
The first such park came in Kypseli and was a test for this environmental upgrade which follows the same strategies implemented in many other European countries as well as in America.
Its successful implementation led to the creation and completion of a second park in Kolonos and this most recent one in Pagrati, makes it the third and largest "Pocket Park" created so far. The creation of this park began with a local citizen taking initiative through the Adopt Your City program, which then lead to the coporate sponsorship from P&G, and the local support of Organization Earth (Organosi Gi) - all of these efforts came together to make it possible.
This pocket park in Pagrati was designed with the aim of being an ecosystem that will contribute to the aesthetic and climatic upgrade of the wider area, to the capture of carbon dioxide and to the increase of biodiversity. It is an area of 750 sq.m. with dense planting of more than 1,150 species of plants and trees were placed, including robinia, simidae and native aromatic plants. The impressive number of different plants and the density of their planting, contribute to the creation of an ecosystem with benefits for the neighborhood.
Most of the park's construction has been made from reused wood, such as railway sleepers, while a sustainable water drainage system has been installed to enrich the aquifer and irrigate the trees. The lighting of the park is produced by autonomous photovoltaics aiming to reduce light pollution and illuminate at 100% in the first hours, then at 80% for four hours and yield 25% by morning. Walking corridors, seats and bicycle seats were installed in the park and water supply was provided for visitors as well as for the birds and animals of the city.
"Athens has been under a lot of pressure all these years, especially during the pandemic. We have put forward a plan to create space for Athenians. Space that we need for everyone to live with dignity in their neighborhood. It is not only the environmental benefits that the city acquires but also the creation of places that have a social character. "Each corner should have its own breath, its own green reference point and, finally, to bring to light areas within the urban fabric that over time had become a burden for the neighborhood." said the Mayor of Athens Mr. Bakoyannis.
XpatAthens extends a warm thank you to This Is Athens and the City Of Athens for sharing news and inspiring stories about how Athens aspires to be a clean, friendly, and welcoming city to live in.
The first such park came in Kypseli and was a test for this environmental upgrade which follows the same strategies implemented in many other European countries as well as in America.
Its successful implementation led to the creation and completion of a second park in Kolonos and this most recent one in Pagrati, makes it the third and largest "Pocket Park" created so far. The creation of this park began with a local citizen taking initiative through the Adopt Your City program, which then lead to the coporate sponsorship from P&G, and the local support of Organization Earth (Organosi Gi) - all of these efforts came together to make it possible.
This pocket park in Pagrati was designed with the aim of being an ecosystem that will contribute to the aesthetic and climatic upgrade of the wider area, to the capture of carbon dioxide and to the increase of biodiversity. It is an area of 750 sq.m. with dense planting of more than 1,150 species of plants and trees were placed, including robinia, simidae and native aromatic plants. The impressive number of different plants and the density of their planting, contribute to the creation of an ecosystem with benefits for the neighborhood.
Most of the park's construction has been made from reused wood, such as railway sleepers, while a sustainable water drainage system has been installed to enrich the aquifer and irrigate the trees. The lighting of the park is produced by autonomous photovoltaics aiming to reduce light pollution and illuminate at 100% in the first hours, then at 80% for four hours and yield 25% by morning. Walking corridors, seats and bicycle seats were installed in the park and water supply was provided for visitors as well as for the birds and animals of the city.
"Athens has been under a lot of pressure all these years, especially during the pandemic. We have put forward a plan to create space for Athenians. Space that we need for everyone to live with dignity in their neighborhood. It is not only the environmental benefits that the city acquires but also the creation of places that have a social character. "Each corner should have its own breath, its own green reference point and, finally, to bring to light areas within the urban fabric that over time had become a burden for the neighborhood." said the Mayor of Athens Mr. Bakoyannis.
XpatAthens extends a warm thank you to This Is Athens and the City Of Athens for sharing news and inspiring stories about how Athens aspires to be a clean, friendly, and welcoming city to live in.
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Local Environment
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Monday, 13 September 2021 07:00
The Pocket Parks Of Athens - A Great Way To Tackle Pollution
The idea of pocket parks, a new way to upgrade urban space, has found fertile ground in the Greek capital, which is focusing on the green and sustainable development of the urban fabric. Athens, like many other large cities around Europe and the world, suffers from a lack of free public spaces.
The urban planning model of previous decades and the conditions created in the city, especially after the waves of domestic migration from rural areas to the capital, have resulted in a cramped living environment, not just in the centre of the city but also in many other districts.
Scientists around the world dealing with climate change and construction are sounding the alarm, pointing to pocket gardens as an essential way of improving everyday life in the city in many areas. In the US and the UK, 'pocket parks' are already being considered as a means of tackling crime and isolation in densely populated areas and, above all, protecting the environment. These practices are also being adopted in Athens, where this concept of small gardens is now being introduced in many corners of the city, as part of the "Adopt Your City" program.
So, what are exactly pocket parks? '''Pocket parks'' are green spaces in sites that have been abandoned for many years and have turned into rubbish dumps. They are located in densely populated neighborhoods of the city and become the bases to utilize every last inch of public space for the benefit of the cities’ inhabitants. These parks are great assets for a city; not only do they contribute to the protection of the environment thanks to their plants and cooling effects, but they also play a role in addressing the isolation felt by large cities’ dwellers. This benefit is ever more important during the pandemic. In other words, they have a very significant social contribution.
The Municipality of Athens has already created four pocket parks in the districts of Kypseli, Kolonos, Pangrati, and Metaxourgeio. This is just the beginning, as the municipal authorities plan to create more parks in other neighborhoods as well as in the city centre, in order to reclaim spaces that have been abandoned for many years.
Of particular interest is the way in which pocket parks are designed in order to become year-round green lungs, using eco-friendly concrete in the pavement and footways, recycled wood benches, densely planted evergreen and deciduous trees, and an underground irrigation system. The flowerbeds are bordered with low evergreen shrubs (myrtle leaf) to prevent people from stepping on them, while a corner is transformed into a vertical garden by placing climbing shrubs. There are also signs next to each plant giving useful information about its identity, as well as structures for useful insect nests. In addition, the gardens are lighted by state-of-the-art autonomous photovoltaic systems, including a digital panel with information on temperature, humidity and other environmental factors.
To read this article in full, please visit: greeknewsagenda.gr
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Local Environment
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Wednesday, 22 September 2021 07:00
One Man’s Trash: Greek Designers Go Green
Environmental awareness in Greece is slowly on the rise. The single-use plastic bag charge levied at supermarkets since January 2018, gives shoppers pause. Prince Charles’ televised refusal of a plastic straw for his cold coffee while visiting Athens split commentators between admiring his eco-credentials and mocking his froth mustache.
But even before the reduce, reuse, recycle movement hit the headlines, young Greek entrepreneurs have been saving throwaways from sea or landfill and using them to create homeware and accessories that are as alluring as they are ethical.
But even before the reduce, reuse, recycle movement hit the headlines, young Greek entrepreneurs have been saving throwaways from sea or landfill and using them to create homeware and accessories that are as alluring as they are ethical.
Rokani: As Wood as it Gets
Credit: Thomas Gravanis
At street bins around Athens, you’ll frequently see old drawers, bedsteads, and pallets waiting to be landfilled. Rokani gives this junk a new lease of life. “It started when one of us was renovating his own home. We experimented with upcycling some of the pallets, and then thought, why not take this further?” says Stratos Hadjiyiannakis, one of Rokani’s five founding members. “We all came from a technical background. After the economic crisis we were looking for an opportunity to start something for ourselves.”
Credit: Thomas Gravanis
At street bins around Athens, you’ll frequently see old drawers, bedsteads, and pallets waiting to be landfilled. Rokani gives this junk a new lease of life. “It started when one of us was renovating his own home. We experimented with upcycling some of the pallets, and then thought, why not take this further?” says Stratos Hadjiyiannakis, one of Rokani’s five founding members. “We all came from a technical background. After the economic crisis we were looking for an opportunity to start something for ourselves.”
They set up in a small workshop, started salvaging pallets, door-frames, and other pieces of wood. After cleaning, filing, and sanding them, they refit them as bookshelves, beds, cupboards, tables, lamps, and even toys. As well as a small store in the Stoa Emboron arcade, they also do made-to-order pieces. If you see something you like online, send a photo to Rokani and they will send you an estimate and create it for you. If your space or style changes, they welcome back old items you have purchased from them—in any condition—and offer you 30% of the current value to buy something else. “As well as promoting recycling, we also promote a cyclical economy,” says Hadjiyiannakis. “Instead of throwing it out, give it back to us. We will find something to do with it.”
Prices: €25-30 for a bookshelf; €150-400 for a table.
Address: 8-10 Voulis, Merchant's Arcade Historic Centre
Telephone: 695 535 0143
Thela: Circles of Life
Courtesy: Thela
Moving from Mumbai to Athens in 2017 gave graphic designer Diti Kotecha the chance to plant a seed that had been rattling around in her head for 20 years. Starting afresh in a new country where plastic bags were handed out like there was no tomorrow, she combined her skills in crocheting, her creative background, and her dedication to sustainability by launching Thela. A vibrant-hued collection of accessories, each piece is made entirely from discarded plastic bags. They are washed, dried, cut into yarn, and then crocheted into brooches, earrings, coasters or floor mats.
The glorious slate-grey and yellow circular Chatai mat uses almost 60 second-hand plastic bags, rescued from ending up on beaches, fields, in oceans, or landfills. And saving some of the estimated 1 million animals killed by discarded plastic bags each year. Nothing is wasted; Kotecha uses the bag handles and seams (which are not usable for yarn) to stuff pom-poms. Thin plastic bags are photodegradable. While crocheting makes the yarn resilient, Kotecha refrains from adding UV coatings, as these are highly toxic and prevent further upcycling.
Prices: from €10 (brooches) to €80 (floor mats).
Think Sea: Nautical and Nice
Courtesy: Think Sea
Think Sea invites donations of ‘retired’ windsurf sails at its base on the island of Paros. The design team transforms them into trendy and durable phone/tablet cases, bags, and wallets. Sounds esoteric? Indeed. But as windsurfing sails are not recyclable, every new rig discarded after a summer of wear and tear was ending up in a landfill. Who knows, that bold color-block duffel bag you are eyeing up might once have carried champion windsurfer Nikos Kaklamanakis to Olympic victory!
Courtesy: Think Sea
Think Sea invites donations of ‘retired’ windsurf sails at its base on the island of Paros. The design team transforms them into trendy and durable phone/tablet cases, bags, and wallets. Sounds esoteric? Indeed. But as windsurfing sails are not recyclable, every new rig discarded after a summer of wear and tear was ending up in a landfill. Who knows, that bold color-block duffel bag you are eyeing up might once have carried champion windsurfer Nikos Kaklamanakis to Olympic victory!
Prices: from €25 (iPhone cases) to €78 (duffel bags).
Shedia Art
Credit: Thomas Gravanis
Chris Alefantis has his social and environmental awareness hat on. You may have noticed people standing outside metro stations throughout the city in red Shedia vests selling a magazine by the same name. Aimed at empowering people in poverty, Shedia does much more than sell street papers. The leftover issues are used to create art objects, from lampshades to flower pots to clocks to delicate bracelets, necklaces, and earrings, by people over the age of 50 who previously had difficulty finding employment. “We’re making the invisible visible again,” Alefantis says, referring to both the people that are being helped and the magazines that would have otherwise been thrown out for recycling. Check out their store on Kolokotroni street, which also just opened as a café and restaurant or the offshoot in the nearby Merchants arcade. Affordability and responsibility is the new black.
Credit: Thomas Gravanis
Chris Alefantis has his social and environmental awareness hat on. You may have noticed people standing outside metro stations throughout the city in red Shedia vests selling a magazine by the same name. Aimed at empowering people in poverty, Shedia does much more than sell street papers. The leftover issues are used to create art objects, from lampshades to flower pots to clocks to delicate bracelets, necklaces, and earrings, by people over the age of 50 who previously had difficulty finding employment. “We’re making the invisible visible again,” Alefantis says, referring to both the people that are being helped and the magazines that would have otherwise been thrown out for recycling. Check out their store on Kolokotroni street, which also just opened as a café and restaurant or the offshoot in the nearby Merchants arcade. Affordability and responsibility is the new black.
Prices: from €2 (fridge magnet) to €100 (large handmade lampshade).
Address: 56 Kolokotroni Street, Monastiraki, 105 60
Telephone: 213 0231220
To read this article in full, please visit: thisisathens.org
Whether you've just arrived in town – or have been here for years – Athens always has new secrets to share!
This is Athens is the official guide to this captivating city of ancient energies and booming urban culture. Compiled by a team of specialist local writers, This is Athens brings you an authentic and intimate portrait of a living Athens beyond the guidebooks – along with daily curated listings of all the best events and great weekend inspiration all-year round. From must-know neighbourhoods and emerging art hubs, to gourmet hotspots, cool shopping and the buzziest bars, This is Athens will help you to get the most out of living in Athens!
Thank you This is Athens for your contribution as an XpatAthens Partner.
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Local Environment
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Thursday, 26 May 2022 12:42
Six Greek Cities To Become EU Climate-Neutral & Smart Cities
Six Greek cities, Athens, Ioannina, Kalamata, Kozani, Thessaloniki, and Trikala have been selected by the European Commission among 377 cities to participate in the EU Mission for 100 climate-neutral and smart cities by 2030 in the domains of energy, transportation, and urban planning.
The Mission for Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities is a novelty of the Horizon Europe research and innovation program for 2021-2027. It aims to bring concrete solutions to the enormous challenge of climate change and digital transformation. The selection of the Greek cities is a great success for the country and it is the result of hard work and cooperation between the 6 cities and the Greek Environment Ministry in the last two years.
Kozani: The energy producing area of Greece
Kozani is a city in northern Greece, the capital of the Kozani region of West Macedonia. The city is known for its large lignite power plants making it, so far, the leading energy-producing area of Greece. After the Greek government’s decision though about the closure of all coal-fired plants by 2028 (the deadline for Kozani being in 2023), local authorities have been preparing a new Strategic Plan for the city aiming to contribute to a smoother transition toward a clean energy regime. The new plan includes policies that will be innovative in energy efficiency through the development of Renewable Energy Sources enhancing at the same time the digital transformation of the local economy and governance.
Trikala: The first digital city of Greece
Trikala sits at the heart of the Greek mainland, located in the region of Thessaly and it has the reputation of being a frontrunner as a smart city, being labeled in 2004 as Greece’s “first digital city”. Today under the name “Smart Trikala”, public authorities have developed a wide range of digital solutions to help improve the lives of citizens and the city has performed highly in terms of innovation results. Trikala is one of the most dynamic medium-sized cities in Europe, being a pioneer in designing innovative ICT solutions in electromobility, energy, e-health, and open governance for the benefit of its citizens.
Ioannina: The lake city of Epirus
Ioannina is the capital of Epirus, a north-western region of Greece, and a beautiful lake city with long history built on Egnatia Odos, an ancient route that connects Europe with Asia. The economy of Ioannina has purely urban characteristics determined by the fact that the city is the commercial and administrative center of the region. Sustainable urban development, with respect and protection of the natural environment, is among the key elements and major strategic goals of all policy strategies and plans of the Municipality.
Kalamata: The Mediterranean city of the southwestern Peloponnese
Kalamata is a Mediterranean city of the southwestern Peloponnese and the capital of Messinia, being faced occasionally with extreme weather events. To deal with the effects of climate change, local authorities in Kalamata have been implementing national and EU projects of more than 120 million Euros for the last 5 years, while at the same time through their participation in these programs local authorities have gained important knowledge and they have participated in beneficial synergies and networks.
To read this article in full, please visit: greeknewsagenda.com
The Mission for Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities is a novelty of the Horizon Europe research and innovation program for 2021-2027. It aims to bring concrete solutions to the enormous challenge of climate change and digital transformation. The selection of the Greek cities is a great success for the country and it is the result of hard work and cooperation between the 6 cities and the Greek Environment Ministry in the last two years.
Kozani: The energy producing area of Greece
Kozani is a city in northern Greece, the capital of the Kozani region of West Macedonia. The city is known for its large lignite power plants making it, so far, the leading energy-producing area of Greece. After the Greek government’s decision though about the closure of all coal-fired plants by 2028 (the deadline for Kozani being in 2023), local authorities have been preparing a new Strategic Plan for the city aiming to contribute to a smoother transition toward a clean energy regime. The new plan includes policies that will be innovative in energy efficiency through the development of Renewable Energy Sources enhancing at the same time the digital transformation of the local economy and governance.
Trikala: The first digital city of Greece
Trikala sits at the heart of the Greek mainland, located in the region of Thessaly and it has the reputation of being a frontrunner as a smart city, being labeled in 2004 as Greece’s “first digital city”. Today under the name “Smart Trikala”, public authorities have developed a wide range of digital solutions to help improve the lives of citizens and the city has performed highly in terms of innovation results. Trikala is one of the most dynamic medium-sized cities in Europe, being a pioneer in designing innovative ICT solutions in electromobility, energy, e-health, and open governance for the benefit of its citizens.
Ioannina: The lake city of Epirus
Ioannina is the capital of Epirus, a north-western region of Greece, and a beautiful lake city with long history built on Egnatia Odos, an ancient route that connects Europe with Asia. The economy of Ioannina has purely urban characteristics determined by the fact that the city is the commercial and administrative center of the region. Sustainable urban development, with respect and protection of the natural environment, is among the key elements and major strategic goals of all policy strategies and plans of the Municipality.
Kalamata: The Mediterranean city of the southwestern Peloponnese
Kalamata is a Mediterranean city of the southwestern Peloponnese and the capital of Messinia, being faced occasionally with extreme weather events. To deal with the effects of climate change, local authorities in Kalamata have been implementing national and EU projects of more than 120 million Euros for the last 5 years, while at the same time through their participation in these programs local authorities have gained important knowledge and they have participated in beneficial synergies and networks.
To read this article in full, please visit: greeknewsagenda.com
Main image: @dimos.kozanis
Published in
Local Environment
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Thursday, 29 September 2022 12:17
Top 5 Energy Conservation Benefits That Go Beyond Saving Money
Today, a growing number of people are going green, and with all that’s been going on, it is only natural to want to change to a more earth-conscious world.
When we decide to make our lives more environmentally friendly, we may be driven by the need to save money, which is understandable, especially with the energy inflation rate continuing to rise. But, apart from that, there are numerous other reasons why we should start saving energy. And, since it’s easier to do something when you perfectly understand why you’re doing it, here are some of these reasons!
Energy conservation benefits the environment
Environmental issues are becoming especially important now more than ever, and we must take some action. We can start by reducing our carbon footprint. Using energy more efficiently means burning fewer fossil fuels, which results in lower emissions of GHGs and other toxins into the atmosphere, soil, and water. It also reduces the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere, reducing the risk of global warming, and can help mitigate habitat destruction.
Energy conservation enhances health & quality of life
In addition to being damaging to the environment, energy production and consumption can also be damaging to human health. Asthma and lung cancer are just two of the many serious medical complications that pollution from energy sources like coal, natural gas, and oil may cause. Energy conservation ensures a lower carbon footprint, resulting in fewer respiratory diseases.
Energy conservation reduces the risk of depletion
It may seem that we have an unlimited supply of natural resources, but we don’t. In reality, energy reserves are declining every single day. According to a research study by the American Energy Information Administration and the International Energy Agency, the universe is expected to continue the consumption of 2% more energy each year than it consumed the past year, putting us in dire need of conserving energy.
Energy conservation maintains steady energy prices
By conserving energy, any chance of shortages is minimized. Abundant energy supply translates to year-round stable prices or, better still, price reductions. Stable costs mean that your budget will remain steady, and you won’t have to worry about prices exploding. But, this is not about your pocket as much as it is about the whole community and taking care of your fellow citizens that can’t afford their energy bills.
Energy conservation has a positive impact on society
You might think that saving energy will go unnoticed, but, in reality, you’re setting the right example for everyone to follow. Your friends, family members, and neighbors will be interested in knowing what you did to lower your electric bill, and many of them will try to do the same, which will benefit the entire community. As Mother Teresa once said, one alone can’t change the world, but one can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples!
Published in
Local Environment
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Wednesday, 05 June 2024 15:16
Grand Opening Of The Piraeus Tower: A New Era For The Iconic Building
Yesterday, Tuesday, June 4th, the grand official opening of the Piraeus Tower took place, attended by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, along with city officials and representatives from the construction company DIMAND.
The iconic 34,600-square-meter, 22-story building in Piraeus, constructed by DIMAND, remained unfinished and unused for nearly 40 years. It has now been redeveloped into a "green" office and commercial building. It is Greece's first digital and bioclimatic skyscraper set to receive the highest Platinum certification under the international sustainable development standard LEED. Notable companies such as Zara and JD Sports are already operating in the Tower, with more businesses expected to move in soon.
The Mayor of Piraeus, Yannis Moralis, was the first to speak about the landmark project. He stated, "This is a historic day for the city of Piraeus. We proudly inaugurate the Tower, which took nearly 40 years to complete. It is the second tallest building in Greece and is no longer an abandoned shell haunting the country's largest port. The Tower is one of our greatest achievements, proving that the impossible can become possible." Mr. Moralis also commented on the significant economic impact the Tower will have on the city. He said, "It serves as the foundation for a wave of investments that have already begun, symbolizing the extroversion and progress taking root in Piraeus." He highlighted ongoing investments in Piraeus, such as the redevelopment of Mikrolimano and Agios Dionysios, previously neglected areas. Major projects by the central administration, including the Metro, the new Judicial Hall of Piraeus, and the new Town Hall, were also mentioned.
The History of the Skyscraper Built in the 1970s
The iconic Piraeus Tower, essentially a skyscraper and the second tallest building in Greece after the Athens Tower, stands as a symbol of ambition and transformation. In the 1970s, its construction aimed to make it a landmark in a rapidly changing port, evolving into an international hub for shipping and transportation.
Nearly half a century later, the Piraeus Tower is finally acquiring the prestige it never quite achieved.
The reconstruction began in 1972, a significant year for the building. Covering approximately 34,600 square meters, the Piraeus Commercial Maritime Center (Piraeus Tower) remained mostly unused since its construction in 1972.
Four years earlier, in 1968, then-mayor Aristides Skylitsis demolished the historic old market of Piraeus, providing the site for the Tower.
It boasts 24 floors and two basements, with a total built area of 34,623 square meters.
However, the view from the third floor upwards was disheartening for anyone entering the Tower in the past decade: empty spaces that remained unfinished since the initial construction phase.
The salvation of the Piraeus Tower, one of the most ambitious construction projects in Greece in the 1970s, came in July 2020, following renewed interest from the municipal administration under Mayor Moralis.
The Architectural Team
The design of the Piraeus Tower was entrusted to the architectural firm of Alexandros Loizos, in collaboration with Ioannis Vikelas, the architect of the Athens Tower, and Demosthenes Molfesis. The building's skeleton was completed in 1974. Between 1979 and 1982, the first stores began operating on the ground floor, but the investment in glass and metal facade cladding was not completed until 1983, leaving the bulk of the building's interior unfinished.
Only the first three floors were utilized for shops, offices, and educational institutions. By 1999, the ground floor housed shops, the first floor contained storage spaces, and the second floor was home to the Ralleios School and the Piraeus Municipal Enterprise for Promotion (DEPEP).
A public international bidding competition took place in 1997-1998 for the completion of the Piraeus Commercial Maritime Center, with a budget of 8 billion drachmas, including the completion of the building, the construction of an underground garage, and a shared surrounding area.
In 2001, the Tower came under the ownership of the Municipality of Piraeus, and a new public international competition was held for its utilization, with a budget of 6 billion drachmas. The company AVAX won the bid, but it was not implemented. Another attempt to exploit the building occurred in 2007.
Overlooking the Sea from 88 Meters
The renovated 22-story building, rising 88 meters above the sea, is now an architectural landmark at the start of the Athenian Riviera, in the heart of Europe's largest passenger port, representing the most innovative, state-of-the-art "green" practices.
Last Christmas, the Tower was illuminated in a spectacular light show, just months before its official opening to tenants and visitors. The Tower now shines every night with environmentally responsible white lighting: very soft white light outlines the facades, minimizing light pollution and keeping energy consumption as low as that of a small apartment's air conditioning.
The first three floors, along with part of the fourth floor, will be used for commercial purposes, while the remaining floors will house offices. The roof of the third floor will feature a restaurant-bar, and part of the third and fourth floors will house a gym.
Access to the office floors will be via contactless elevators, with floor access controlled by cards. The elevator speed will be four meters per second, the fastest in any building in Greece.
Originally published in Greek, on: thebest.gr
Originally published in Greek, on: thebest.gr
Published in
Local Environment
Tagged under
Tuesday, 26 November 2024 02:44
Why It’s Never Too Cold In Greece: Embracing Our Unique Climate
As late November settles in, the first chills of winter are finally here. Temperatures drop, scarves and coats come out, and the air carries that crisp, refreshing bite that reminds us the season is changing. Yet in Greece, even in the depths of winter, the cold never quite reaches the extremes we see in other parts of the world. We might glance longingly at images of snow-covered streets or white Christmas scenes in other countries, but let’s take a moment to appreciate the unique blessings of the Greek climate.
A Mild Winter Wonderland
Greece’s Mediterranean climate is one of its greatest treasures. Characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, this climate is the reason why Greece enjoys some of the most enviable weather in Europe. While northern countries brace for freezing temperatures, snowstorms, and icy commutes, Greek winters remain relatively gentle.
Even in colder regions, like the mountainous areas of northern Greece, winter is more about cozying up by the fire than battling extreme weather. In cities like Athens or coastal areas such as Crete and the Cyclades, temperatures rarely dip below freezing. Instead, winters are punctuated by periods of bright, sunny days where outdoor coffee with friends remains a possibility—even in December.
The Benefits of a Gentle Winter
While snow-covered landscapes may look magical, the mild Greek winters come with their own unique advantages:
- Accessible Outdoors: Winter doesn’t mean shutting ourselves inside. Hiking, walks by the sea, and even outdoor sports are still enjoyable, thanks to the pleasant weather.
- Seasonal Produce: Greece’s winter markets overflow with fresh, seasonal produce like oranges, mandarins, and hearty greens, perfect for warming meals like traditional stews and pies.
- Lower Energy Costs: Milder temperatures mean less reliance on heating, making winters not just more comfortable but also more affordable.
- Mood-Boosting Sunshine: Greece’s winters are often sunny, even if the air is chilly. Sunlight is a natural mood lifter, helping stave off the “winter blues” that many experience in darker, colder climates.
Why Greece Avoids Extreme Cold
Greece’s geographical location plays a crucial role in its temperate winters. The country’s position at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa ensures that cold air masses from the north are tempered by the surrounding seas, which act as a natural regulator. The Mediterranean Sea, in particular, stores heat from the long summer months, releasing it slowly as temperatures drop.
Additionally, Greece’s mountainous terrain creates microclimates that protect certain areas from the worst of winter’s chill. Coastal regions, in particular, benefit from the sea’s moderating influence, while inland areas experience cooler but still manageable conditions.
Finding Joy in Our Winters
It’s easy to envy the postcard-perfect snowscapes of northern Europe or the excitement of a snow day. But Greek winters offer something equally valuable: a balanced climate that lets us enjoy the season without enduring its harsher extremes. From cozy evenings enjoying hearty meals to sunny strolls along the coastline, Greece’s winter is a gentle reminder that each season has its own charm.
So, as we pull on our sweaters and enjoy the first whispers of winter, let’s focus on the beauty of what we have. It may not be a white winter wonderland, but it’s uniquely Greek—and that’s something to celebrate.
Published in
Local Environment
Tagged under
Wednesday, 17 May 2017 12:08
Study In Greece
Who We Are
Study in Greece is the official web portal of the Greek state, providing information and support regarding studying and living in Greece, to:
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Domestic and international students who wish to, or already study in Greece for a higher education degree.
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Students who participate to exchange programs, such as Erasmus+.
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Refugees , immigrants and those who need international assistance, in order to foster integration into the Greek education system.
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Any other case of students, or potential students.
It is an initiative taken by a group of Faculty members and University students. It is under the auspices of the Greek Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Education Research and Religious Affairs , both having a link to the "Study In Greece" portal on their websites homepages. A link to the portal is available on all Greek embassies webpages.
Our Incentives
Our international students expressed and described the difficulties they faced during all stages of applying, registering and settling in Greece. This, provided the motivation to form the Study In Greece group and start working on the gathering and the provision of information to international students, showing that Greece is a very friendly and a very safe destination. The initiative has gained very high popularity among potential and existing international students, a fact that is supported by the large number of questions and ‘likes’ we have through our presence in the social networks.
Our Incentives
Our international students expressed and described the difficulties they faced during all stages of applying, registering and settling in Greece. This, provided the motivation to form the Study In Greece group and start working on the gathering and the provision of information to international students, showing that Greece is a very friendly and a very safe destination. The initiative has gained very high popularity among potential and existing international students, a fact that is supported by the large number of questions and ‘likes’ we have through our presence in the social networks.
Our Vision
- Contribute to the international spread of the Greek culture.
- Support in making Greece a favorite destination for higher studies among international students and for all levels of higher education.
- Extend the provided information and support to include refugees and people seeking international protection.
- Expand the group and create a network of students and faculty members across all higher education institutions in Greece.
- Create a European and International network of higher education institutions to support student mobility.
- Serve as the main portal providing information and support, even at the individual level, for international students.
- Provide continuously updated information regarding the higher education news, like new postgraduate programs announcements, legislation, news, etc.
Published in
General Interest
Tagged under
Sunday, 10 February 2019 11:11
World Spay Day - Sponsor A Cat Today
Nine Lives Greece is a network of volunteers dedicated to the reduction of the stray cat overpopulation through trap-neuter-return programmes.
Unneutered tomcats can create many problems on the streets - to themselves and also those unfortunate enough to get in their way. Five-month-old Gretel was found with a serious scratch wound on her face. And Snow White, who is only 9 months old, was attacked by an unneutered tomcat, likely either trying to mate with her or scare her off his turf.
Unneutered tomcats can create many problems on the streets - to themselves and also those unfortunate enough to get in their way. Five-month-old Gretel was found with a serious scratch wound on her face. And Snow White, who is only 9 months old, was attacked by an unneutered tomcat, likely either trying to mate with her or scare her off his turf.
Unneutered male cats spray everywhere to mark their territory, annoying their human neighbours and thus increasing the risk of poisoning. They roam further in search of females to mate with, heightening the probability of being run over and risking the lives of the female cats they chase.
They can father potentially hundreds of kittens in their lifetimes, adding to the overpopulation of stray cats in Athens.
Each February, Nine Lives participates in the Humane Society International’s World Spay Day – a global campaign that spotlights the importance of spaying/neutering.
Spaying/neutering is a proven way to reduce stray cat populations and improve their everyday quality of life. To mark World Spay Day, Nine Lives issues a challenge to supporters: help spay/neuter as many cats possible in one month!
For as little as €35, you can become a Friend of Nine Lives today and a cat will be spayed/neutered, get anti-parasite treatment and receive much-needed medical attention, all thanks to you!
Click HERE to read their stories and choose a cat (or cats) that you would like to sponsor!
They can father potentially hundreds of kittens in their lifetimes, adding to the overpopulation of stray cats in Athens.
Each February, Nine Lives participates in the Humane Society International’s World Spay Day – a global campaign that spotlights the importance of spaying/neutering.
Spaying/neutering is a proven way to reduce stray cat populations and improve their everyday quality of life. To mark World Spay Day, Nine Lives issues a challenge to supporters: help spay/neuter as many cats possible in one month!
For as little as €35, you can become a Friend of Nine Lives today and a cat will be spayed/neutered, get anti-parasite treatment and receive much-needed medical attention, all thanks to you!
Click HERE to read their stories and choose a cat (or cats) that you would like to sponsor!
Published in
Community
Tagged under
