The Conference took place in Kalambaka
The Meteora – Pyli Geopark is a “tool” for development
The challenges and opportunities arising from the recognition of the Meteora – Pyli Geopark as a UNESCO World Heritage Site were analyzed today during a scientific workshop held at the Centre for Digital Promotion of History and Culture of Meteora.
During the workshop, the obligations stemming from the inclusion of the Meteora – Pyli Geopark in UNESCO’s Global Geoparks Network were presented in detail, along with the significant prospects opening up for the region. These prospects encompass not only the promotion of its geosites, culture, and local products but also the improvement of residents’ quality of life.
In his address, the Mayor of Meteora, Eleftherios Avramopoulos, emphasized that the local community is facing an unprecedented opportunity to transform the region into a global destination by becoming part of a network of 213 geoparks worldwide. “We must all recognize the scale of the opportunity before us and take every possible initiative to seize this unique chance to change the future of our land,” he stated.
Echoing the same sentiment, the Deputy Regional Head of Tourism for Thessaly, Natasha Adamopoulou, highlighted that the Thessaly Region, recognizing the project’s potential, has proceeded with the development of an Integrated Spatial Intervention plan for the area. This initiative aims to create the necessary development tools for completing infrastructure projects that will support the Geopark’s growth.
The President of the Trikala Chamber of Commerce, K. Papaefthymiou, spoke about the efforts of the previous Chamber administration and the commitments of the current one to support business activities linked to the Geopark. He stressed that entrepreneurship is a key factor in the project’s success and a sector that can harness the region’s increasing global visibility.
The event’s keynote speaker, Professor Nikos Zouros, President of the National Geoparks Committee of the Hellenic Commission for UNESCO and Professor of Physical Geography at the University of the Aegean, delivered an extensive presentation. He discussed the history of geoparks worldwide and, more specifically, the promising prospects for the Meteora – Pyli Geopark following its inclusion in UNESCO’s Global Geoparks Network. Professor Zouros provided an in-depth analysis of both the challenges and opportunities ahead, urging the local community to “embrace” the Geopark and maximize its immense potential.
Additionally, the Geopark’s special advisor, Nikos Pitsoulis, presented the strategic plan and the package of actions designed by the Region of Thessaly and the municipalities of Meteora and Pyli. These initiatives aim to unlock the full potential of the Geopark, enhancing the region’s visibility while also boosting the local Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and contributing to the sustainable management of resources and long-term development.
Finally, the Deputy Head of the Pertouli – Trikala Environmental and Sustainability Education Center, Teresa Kotroni, highlighted the crucial role of education in environmental protection and the promotion of the Geopark. She also showcased the environmental education programs implemented in the region, which serve as an additional tool for sustainability and development.
The event was attended by the Deputy Regional Head of Environment for Thessaly, Fotis Lambrinidis, appointed regional councillors K. Kitsios and Th. Xafos, municipal councillors from the municipalities of Meteora and Pyli, and a large audience.
