“Europe will become independent in terms of energy and from geopolitical pressures also thanks to renewable energy sources (RES). Development of RES and clean energy must be supported and be a vital part of Europe’s recovery. Europe needs to move in two directions: development of RES and investment in works that will prevent floods”. Konstantinos Agorastos, Regional Governor of Thessaly made these remarks when addressing an EPP Local Dialogue held in Larissa to explain the experience of Thessaly when it comes to planning, prevention, awareness, response and rehabilitation of emergencies
Agorastos said that water can serve as an important source of alternative energy. He added that fighting climate change will not only help in preventing natural disasters but it will on long-term improve the quality of life of our citizens as well as protect businesses.
Margaritis Schinas, Vice President of the European Commission spoke on the need to be independent energy wise and how this gives a new impetus to the European Green Deal. “Through REPowerEU, we want to be independent from Russian gas, and we want to accelerate the green transition. Through REPowerEU we want to reduce dependence on Russian gas by 2/3 by next winter.”
Christos Stylianidis, Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection spoke on the urgent need to adjust and adapt to manage risk through a holistic approach based on partnerships. “Climate change is a multi-level challenge that can’t be tackled only by a single body or organisation. This is why we are working closely with local and regional authorities, the scientific community and civil society on 3 dimensions: prevention, preparedness and resilience.” Stylianidis also spoke on the need to engage citizens “If citizens are not informed and trained in case of a natural disaster they will not be able to respond appropriately.”
MEP Maria Spyraki, member of the European Parliament’s ENVE Committee said “Science has offered us all the details we need. We as politicians should act promptly, here and now and learn from the recent past. Prevention is essential so we must have long-term programs so we do not react during a disaster. Thessaly region can play a key role in prevention but more funds and resources for prevention projects are needed. We should focus on prevention to better manage water and floods and use this water for farming. Citizens’ involvement, awareness raising among farmers is key.”
Christos Zerefos, Secretary General, Academy of Athens and Climate Envoy for Greece said that in his opinion, it is difficult to reverse current trends in Climate Change or to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to well below 2, degrees Celsius, compared to pre-industrial levels. “We need to learn how to live with the new climate conditions. But it would be better store and save water in Thessaly region.” Zerefos stressed
Speaking on the increase in frequency of natural disasters, Efthymis Lekkas, Professor of Dynamic Tectonics of Applied Geology and Natural Disaster Management said “Scientific data shows that we will have more and more extreme weather that will create natural disasters. From now one we will have to tackle not a single risk but a combination of risks. We will come across more extreme phenomenon that will have an impact on the social, environment and financial level. We thus need a new approach in the management of risks and crisis. Prevention is key in order to avoid loss of goods and most of all loss of lives.”
Christos Triantopoulos, Deputy Minister to the Prime Minister presented the three pillars of the national response plan to climate crisis. Pillar 1 is based on green and sustainable development to minimise negative impacts on the natural environment. Pillar 2 encompasses preparedness and resilience. Emphasis is made on prevention of fires and floods. Pillar 3 focuses on restoration and provision of support to victim.
Dr. Fay Makantasi, Research Director diANEOsis presented the findings of a survey which showed that several Greek citizens believe that climate change will impact their quality of life. “Our goal is to implement reforms, so it is important to listen to people. To do so, we need to have an overview of what society believes. We want to raise awareness and engage citizens on Climate Change issues.”
Dimitris Skalkos, Secretary General of Public Works and NSRF of the Ministry of Development and Investment said that there is little time to act before climate changes is non-reversible. He said that allocation of resources and funds to handle climate crisis must ensure the productive transformation of the economy towards a climate resilient economy. He stressed that Greece adopted an ambitious plan to adjust to climate crisis through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. In fact, 37% funds will go to tackle climate change. He added that the EU has a key role to play in fighting climate change and hence why supporting the energy union is vital.