In September 2023, the “Climate Era” Forum was held at the B & M Theocharakis Foundation for the Fine Arts & Music, organised by the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature (HSPN) with the participation of distinguished speakers from Greece and abroad, aiming to highlight the importance of environmental education for the new generation, society and the economy. The Forum, which was organised with the support of the John S. Latsis Public Benefit Foundation in the framework of HSPN’s series of educational activities entitled “Protection of Nature Lab”, highlighted the need for a wider and more substantial environmental education and the development of actions for the promotion of sustainability based on modern international standards in order to address the effects of climate change more effectively. In addition, the results of the nationwide survey conducted by Metron Analysis for the HSPN on “Trends of society and citizens regarding the Climate Crisis in Greece and the World” were presented, aiming to capture the perception and connection of the Greeks with the natural environment, as well as the challenges associated with climate change. The survey revealed that the perception and awareness regarding climate change in Greece is increasing significantly, although it is linked to the world’s prevailing conditions, while high rates of “climate anxiety” –distress related to the consequences of climate change– were recorded.

• More than 1,300 people attended the Forum, either in person or remotely.

“It appears that the impacts of climate change are occurring faster and are more intense than predicted, with devastating consequences, while current efforts to address them are lagging far behind in speed, scale and ambition. It is time for all of us to take on the cost of saving the planet –individual, social, economic and political– and take action to change our lifestyle and the system around us. The catalysts for action are education, information and awareness. We believe in the triptych of cooperation – coordination – participation and such an example is the support we received from the John S. Latsis Public Benefit Foundation for the implementation of our initiative. There is a need of a substantial and comprehensive effort, because we are running out of time.”

Nikos Petrou

President, Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature

Vice President, Foundation for Environmental Education

Watch the Forum here.