Green Social Action Plan for Sifnos to transition the island to a more sustainable model
ACTIVITY
The Green Action Social Plan For Sifnos is a comprehensive proposal aimed at facilitating a transition towards a more green, socially just, and resilient model for the island. Developed within the framework of the GRAPE program, it addresses pressing issues such as the current climate crisis, tourism overcrowding, social infrastructure, landscape degradation, and agricultural decline. The project recognizes the urgency of addressing these challenges and presents strategies for sustainable development tailored to the island’s needs that can be used in other similar islands
ISLANDS
Sifnos (Greece)
PARTNERS
ANEMOS ANANEOSIS, Municipality of Sifnos
HOW ?
The Green Social Action Plan adopts a focused strategy for the restoration of dry stone walls, highlighting inter-island exchanges, training initiatives, and the sharing of expertise. By partnering with local stakeholders, it aims to harness the age-old tradition of dry stone wall construction to combat climate change, preserve local landscapes, and safeguard cultural heritage. Through hands-on workshops, cross-island knowledge transfer, and collaborations with pertinent institutions and neighboring islands, the plan endeavors to breathe new life into this traditional craft while tackling the modern challenges posed by the climate crisis.
OBJECTIVES
- To facilitate the organization of dry stone wall restoration workshops on Sifnos and neighboring islands that provide practical training for local residents.
- To establish inter-island exchanges and promote best practices in dry stone wall construction, preservation, and maintenance.
- To develop training programs focused on the techniques of dry stone wall restoration, targeting diverse audiences.
- To provide a blueprint for similar action plans for other small islands facing comparable challenges.
POSITIVE IMPACTS
Strengthening social structures and community resilience through the social economy.
Creation of green jobs in sectors such as ecotourism, agritourism, and cultural tourism that will decline due to the heat waves prevailing in the summer. Enhancement of social services, including care services for the elderly and support for vulnerable populations.
Promotion of education and training initiatives to empower local communities and build capacity for sustainable development and progress toward the effective deployment of the SMILO labeling process.
Preservation and restoration of the island’s natural ecosystems, including the Natura2000 area. Implementation of climate adaptation strategies to mitigate the impacts of the climate crisis. Promotion of energy efficiency measures to transition away from fossil fuels. Protection of biodiversity and conservation of local species and genetic diversity.
Diversification of the tourism model towards sustainable alternatives, boosting local economies. Revitalization of agriculture through regenerative practices and the preservation of traditional knowledge. Creation of new economic opportunities in sectors aligned with the green and social transition.