Athens Municipality partners with HSPN to combat air pollution

The Municipality of Athens and the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature (HSPN) have launched a partnership to combat atmospheric pollution in Athens. Part of the European ‘See What You Breathe’ campaign, the initiative aims to involve the scientific community, civil society, and local residents in developing effective measures to create a more resilient and sustainable city.

Nikos Chrysogelos, Climate Pact and Socio-Economic Advisor to the Municipality of Athens, emphasized that pollution disproportionately affects vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those living in areas with limited green space. The partnership seeks to implement a ‘Zero Pollution’ strategy, which also aims to reduce climate-impacting emissions.

Nikos Petrou, President of HSPN and the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), noted that while air pollution may be invisible, its consequences for health and the environment are real. The collaboration intends to connect European expertise with local knowledge to promote clean air as a fundamental requirement for healthy urban living.