The Municipality of Thessaloniki, in collaboration with the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and as part of the LIFE SIRIUS European project, hosted a workshop titled “Environmental Information in the City of Thessaloniki – Air Pollution & Health” on World Environment Day.
This event, which took place in the Municipal Council’s Conference Room, featured the unveiling of the “Consolidated Environmental Management System”, a specialized web application designed to manage environmental data.
The platform, demonstrated at the workshop’s conclusion by Dr. Athina Proyiou from AXON Environmental Ltd, is set to provide real-time data on air quality, offering early warnings to residents, particularly the vulnerable, about the risks of high pollutant levels. The system simplifies the Air Pollution Index and includes sophisticated early warning mechanisms considering air pollution and weather conditions. It is anticipated that the initial version of this system will go live in June, with full functionality expected by year’s end.
During the event, Thessaloniki’s Mayor emphasized the longstanding issue of air pollution, which has plagued the city since 2005. He recounted the unfortunate milestone reached in 2023, marking Thessaloniki’s first conviction related to air pollution levels, underscoring the urgent need for effective solutions. The Mayor reaffirmed the city’s commitment to actively addressing this invisible threat through various municipal competencies, in partnership with the Laboratory of Atmospheric Physics at Aristotle University.
Mr. Angeloudis, hailed the new system as a crucial tool for monitoring air quality and safeguarding public health. He expressed gratitude towards the Laboratory of Atmospheric Physics for its extensive collaboration in both developing the digital platform and participating in European initiatives aimed at fostering a climate-neutral and smarter city.
Further contributions to the workshop included insights from Spyros Vougias, President of the Municipal Council, who pointed out the main sources of pollution, such as vehicle emissions and oil combustion, which have been exacerbated by economic crises leading to increased wood and biomass burning. Professor Haralambos Fidas, the Rector of Aristotle University, highlighted the university’s dedication to leveraging innovative research for environmental and economic benefits.
Professor Dimitris Melas discussed the urban heat island effect, noting that the city center often experiences temperatures 2 to 3 degrees Celsius higher than those at the airport, particularly at night. Meanwhile, European strategies on air pollution and climate change were outlined by Dr. Georgios Amanatidis, a researcher from the European Parliament.
Concluding the roster of speakers, Emeritus Professor Lazaros Sichletidis shared insights on environmental health impacts, and Daphne Parliari, a postdoctoral researcher, spoke on air pollution and thermal discomfort.
The event underscored the collaborative effort required to combat environmental challenges in Thessaloniki, urging all citizens to participate in building a greener, more sustainable city.
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