Anavyssos, 23.11.2023
Water Matters – “Increasing knowledge on the importance of Good status of Water Bodies” campaign, funded by “Water Management” Program of the EEA Grants (European Economic Area of the Financial Mechanism 2014-2021) with the Ministry of Environment and Energy acting as Program Operator, carried out the sixth awareness campaign for the sustainable management of water in the beautiful islands of Theresia and Santorini from 13 to 19 November 2023.
In the framework of public and school communities’ awareness, a variety of experiential activities were held in schools of both islands from 14 to 16 November.
Specifically, students from the primary schools of Karterados, Emporio, Episkopi and Oia, the special primary school of Fira, as well as the primary and secondary schools of Theresia, were informed about the results of the project and discussed about good practices of water management, as this precious natural resource is under great pressure on their islands, due to the increased tourism.
Students participated in various hands on activities (educational games, crafts, etc.). They also had the opportunity to observe freshwater animals (Benthic Macroinvertebrates) and microalgae (Diatoms), with the use of stereoscope and microscope respectively, which are extremely important organisms as they act as bio-indicators of the quality of surface fresh water bodies.
In total, more than 930 people participated in school activities.
Ιn addition, and with the cooperation of the Municipal Port Fund of Thira, informative signs were placed in Athinio and Vlyhada ports on 17 November, in order to inform visitors about the water heritage of Santorini and Theresia.
Finally, an event was held in DAPPOS hall in Karterados, on 18 November, where the up-to date results of the project were presented by Mrs. Andriopoulou Argyro (HCMR), as well as the Monitoring Program of the implementation of the Water Framework Directive with emphasis on the islands, by Mr. Lagogiannis Sergios (HCMR). Last but not least, the Norwegian partner of the project Professor Tor Arnesen (INN) presented examples of good practices for sustainable water management in his country in a very interesting way and highlighted the similarities and differences between the two countries on water resources management issues.
More than 15 people (teachers, students, citizens, stakeholders) attended the workshop.
Special thanks to Mrs. Mavrommati Dimitra, Waste Management Consultant of the Municipal Port Fund of Thira, for her valuable help on the organization of the event.