Local Stakeholder Meeting #1 - Region of Attica
On Wednesday, September 4th, 2024, the Regional Development Fund of Attica hosted their first local stakeholder meeting, bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders for the launch of the JUSTGREEN project, part of the Interreg Europe Programme. The meeting brought together a wide range of experts and institutions, reflecting the importance of collaboration in achieving greener and more inclusive policies. Representatives from the Region of Attica, the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, the Green Fund, the Agricultural University of Athens, and the National Centre for Social Research were joined by key figures from green spaces such as Pedion to Areos and Antonis Tritsis Metropolitan Park.
In addition, professional organisations like the Panhellenic Association of Landscape Architects, the Greek Association of Urban and Rural Planners, and the Panhellenic Association of Professional Landscape Engineers & Green Businesses, alongside the Innovation Centre Attica Region also joined the meeting.
The primary goal of this first meeting was to establish a dedicated group of stakeholders who play a key role in shaping the future of green policies in the region of Attica. This group will focus on improving the policy tools, particularly the Regional Operational Program Attica, to ensure that social aspects are integrated into the planning and funding of green urban spaces. This collaborative group will meet regularly, gradually expanding its themes and including more voices from different sectors. Their mission is to make sure that urban green spaces are not only environmentally sustainable but also socially inclusive, offering high-quality, accessible spaces for all, especially vulnerable groups.
The meeting started with a short presentation of JUSTGREEN project and its pillars and objectives, an overview of the climate and anthropogenic challenges of the Metropolitan Athens area, and the aspirations and aims of this newly founded Local Stakeholders' Group.
An individual "scoring card" with statements was distributed, and a round of discussion on the essence and meaning of each statements began. Each stakeholder scored individually and then argued their opinion.
Some of the topics were the quality of urban green related to different social needs, the importance of sincere and effective participatory processes, and the necessary steps forward to recent social data. The discussions also touched on the allocation of funding for green projects and how these funds can benefit local communities, especially those often overlooked. After the discussion, the participants had the opportunity to "change their minds" and scored each statement on a collective board.
Finally, they proposed some examples of exciting good practices from their field as insight for the next partners meeting in Athens.
A lot of invaluable knowledge and experiences were exchanged during the meeting. Stakeholders discussed the importance of integrating social data into green urban planning and climate adaptation strategies, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background or circumstances, has access to green spaces that improve quality of life.
This meeting was just the beginning of a long-term collaboration between a wide range of experts, institutions, and organizations. By working together, we can ensure that the policies we create protect the environment and foster social equity and well-being. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in this landmark event. Your insights and contributions are helping to shape a greener, more inclusive future for Europe.