The Necessity and Challenges of Trees in Athens

The importance of urban greenery and trees is increasing, especially in Athens, due to the climate crisis and the low ratio of green space per capita. AΠΕ-ΜΠΕ spoke with experts about the challenges and solutions.

Stavroula Katsogianni, president of PEEGEP, emphasizes that greenery is an asset of the city. Eleni Spantidaki and Giannis Georgousakis, head of the Athens Municipality's Greenery Department, mentioned the difficulties and challenges.

In the past, wrong choices of trees and planting distances were made. Today, Mediterranean species such as bitter orange, Judas tree, olive, carob and mulberry are used. Soil quality is crucial for tree health.

Installing trees in Athens is a challenge due to accessibility legislation, limited space on sidewalks, and the presence of underground utility networks. Illegal parking exacerbates the problem.

The hills of Athens are important for citizens and constitute ecosystems. Improving the quality of life requires the development of a network of green infrastructure.

The Municipality of Athens manages 93,891 trees and is committed to planting 5,000 trees per year. Citizens can be informed about tree plantings through the website https://athenstrees.cityofathens.gr/.

M. Kiaou reports that thousands of trees are sacrificed in redevelopments. The leveling of trees occurs at metro stations and squares.