The first “Kifissia Summit” was held at the Goulandris Natural History Museum on Wednesday, October 30, focusing on innovative practices to address the climate crisis and policies for climate resilience. The event, organized by the Municipality of Kifissia – Nea Erythraia – Ekali, aimed to promote discussion on European-level strategies and climate resilience policies implemented by local governments and organizations from both the public and private sectors.

Efstathios Stathopoulos, Secretary General for Forests of the Ministry of Environment and Energy, highlighted forest fire prevention policies. He noted that this year’s wildfire-affected areas were “significantly below the 27-year average,” according to the European Copernicus Observatory, with affected areas being 15-20% lower than the long-term average. Stathopoulos also emphasized the extensive investments in forest protection since 2022, totaling €430 million through initiatives like “Antinero,” which supports reforestation, forest maintenance, and wildfire prevention zones across Greece.

Kifissia Mayor Vassilis Xypolytas addressed the climate challenges faced by local governments and the need for resilience measures. He stressed that Kifissia has lacked significant flood prevention projects for 30 years, highlighting the municipality’s request for €850,000 for studies to initiate €40 million in flood prevention projects.

Deputy President of the Central Union of Greek Municipalities and Mayor of Vari-Voula-Vouliagmeni, Grigoris Konstantellos, discussed the vital role of resources for local government disaster preparedness. “Climate change is now a priority for local administration,” he said, underscoring the need for serious investments in local infrastructure.

Academy of Athens Secretary-General Christos Zerefos warned of rising temperatures in the Mediterranean, with summer temperatures now exceeding 3.5°C above average, alongside severe droughts contributing to an increase in forest fires.

The summit’s aim was to initiate dialogue among local authorities on climate crisis response, with participants from government, academia, business, and international communities collaborating on innovative climate solutions.