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View from Nymphs's hill in Athens

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The following plants are endemics of Greece. They are included on the Red Data Book of Rare and Threatened Plants of Greece (1996, 2009) and some of them (4,5) on the IUCN Red list.

They can be found in Mt Hymettos, Mt Parnitha and Schinias-Marathonas National Park.

1. Asperulla Baenitzi (EN)
2. Sideritis raeseri Boiss. and Heldr. subsp. attica (VU)
3. Consolida tenuissima(Sm.) Soo (VU)
4. Fritillaria obliqua Ker-Gawler ssp. οbliqua (NT)
5. Ophrys argolica sub argolica (NT)

*This column is part of the group work assignment. For more information please follow the link.
Group work assignment: https://padlet.com/gscontact/fzb6ajrapxfg

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I'm Katerina and i live in Athens, Greece. My PlantArea is Attica with a main focus on mountain Hymettos. Greece belongs to the Mediterranean basin plant diversity hotspot. For more information about Athens and Mt Hymettos please visit my BioArea:

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Greek folk music, Dodecanese

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Το Άρωμα | Λέρος

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The National Park of Schinias – Marathon lies in the northeast of Attica, approximately 40km from the center of Athens. The National Park constitutes a landscape of 13.840 acres, which includes also the marine area, and consists of the wetland, the Cynosoura penisnsula, the Drakonera hill, the Aleppo-pine forest, the area of the Makaria spring, the Marathon bay and the Olympic Rowing Center
http://filotis.itia.ntua.gr/biotopes/c/GR3000003/

Photo: https://www.bio-e.org/lib/schinias-marathon-national-park

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The area of ​​Schinias presents a wide variety of vegetation which reflects the varying soil and aqueous conditions.

Vegetation is classified into four sections: the vegetation of sandy beaches, wetlands vegetation, forest pine (P. pinea) and Aleppo pine (P. halepensis) and scrub areas.

Posidonia oceanica

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Along the beach in a very thin zone develops vegetation of ammophilous and ammonitrophilous species. The main species found in this zone are: Elymus farctus, Sporolobus pungens, Eryngium maritimum, Medicago marina, Pseudorlaya pumila, Medicago litoralis, Mathiola tricuspidata, Allium phalareum, Cakile maritime, Anthemis peregrine, Bromus rigidus, Erodium malacoides, Echium arenarium.

The vegetation of wetlands extending north and northeast of the pine forest. This area is flooded most of the time by water, while during the summer is dried. As far as concerns the halophytic vegetation the species that occur mainly are: Salicornietum fruticosae and secondarily the Juncetum maritimi, the Junceum acuti and Salicornietum radicantis.

The forest pine (P. pinea) and Aleppo pine (P. halepensis) occupies a band width of 450 meters and a length of about 3 km along the coast.

Of the most frequently occurring species in the herbaceous vegetation are Piptatherum miliaceum, Brachypodium retusum, Linum maritimum, Muscari commosum, Cynosurus echinatus, Silene colorata, Lagurus ovatus, Seriole aethensis, Briza media, Euphorbia peploides, Bromus rubens, Saligeria cretica, Vicia dasycarpa, Phagnalon graecum, Crucianella latifolia,  Brassica turnefortii,  Hordeum murinum, Plantago lagopus, Erodium malacoides.

Source:

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The area of ​​Skhinias presents a wide variety of vegetation which reflects the varying soil and aqueous conditions. Displays while also strong image degradation and decline associated with the reckless human activity. Classified into four sections vegetation, the vegetation of sandy beaches, wetlands vegetation, forest pine (P. pinea) and Aleppo pine (P. halepensis) and scrub.

The vegetation of sandy beaches stretching between the bare coastline and raw forest trees pine (P. pinea) and Aleppo pine (P. halepensis), along the beach in a very thin zone develops one vegetation ammophilous and ammonitrophilous species. These species are sparsely scattered presence alone Elymus farctus (Agropyron junceum) some forms compact islands a few square meters. The vegetation is highly degraded and stopped both bare surfaces of loose sand created by the strong human presence, and the presence of individual trees, shrubs and brushwood, as P. halepensis, P. pinea, Juniperus Oxycedrous spp macrocarpa, J. Phoenicea , Pistacia lentiscus, Anthyllis hermaniae, Centaurea spinosa.

The main species found in this zone are: Elymus farctus, Sporolobus pungens, Eryngium maritimum, Medicago marina, Pseudorlaya pumila, Medicago litoralis, Mathiola tricuspidata, Allium phalareum, Cakile maritime, Anthemis peregrine, Bromus rigidus, Erodium malacoides, Echium arenarium. Rarely found the Cyperus capitatus and Xanthium strumarium and even more rarely Pancratium maritimum.

The vegetation of wetlands extending north and northeast of the pine forest. This area is flooded most of the time by water, while during the summer dried in bulk. As to the halophytic vegetation of the plant communities that occur mainly is Salicornietum fruticosae and secondarily the Juncetum maritimi, the Junceum acuti and Salicornietum radicantis. H vegetation composition will vary by locations displayed more rich in slight elevations created and quite often in lower positions, some species such as Salicornia fruticosa, Juncus subulatus create the pure plant communities. The species composition of the halophytic vegetation is mainly Salicornia fruticosa, Juncus subulatus, Inula crithmoides, Halimione portucaloides, Francenia hirsute, Pholiurus philiformis, Pholiurus incurvatus, Plantago crassifolia, Pucinellia maritime, P. distans, Aeluropus litoralis, Triglochin bulbosum, Sacrocornia perennis, Limonium bellidifolium, Juncus maritimus, Juncus acutus. The species Tamarix hampana end and T. parviflora is quite widespread and occupy the slopes of elevations. On those surfaces after drainage and peichomatoseis not inundated by water, the halophytic vegetation has begun to decline and the position occupied meadow herbaceous plants and woody species such as Pistacia lentiscus, Juniperus phoenicea. Rarely in elevations near the forest settles the Pinus halepensis.

The forest pine (P. pinea) and Aleppo pine (P. halepensis) occupies a band width of 450 meters and a length of about 3 km along the coast. The composition of the overstorey participate P. halepensis and P. pinea, but their participation is not uniform throughout. In the eastern half of the Aleppo area forming pure forest sparsely scattered pine mainly people along the beach. From the middle of the area shows the umbrella pine, whose presence begins to thicken irregularly westward to reach the western edge in pure forest. Generally in the forest most of it is still quite dense canopy with greater than 0.7. An exception is the forest of Aleppo and a thin band along the beach whose canopy is less than 0.4. Existing gaps are generally limited in scope and does not interrupt the continuity of the forest.

The pine forest is composed of persons older than 70 years and involved only in the overstorey. Smaller classes height and age are rarely encountered, and the regeneration is limited to non-existent. The reason for the lack of regeneration beyond human presence is and until a few years grazing since young pine seedlings are palatable food for the animals. In the forest of Aleppo clusters have irregular ypokipeftoeidi form or peers in small areas. The renaissance is here limited to a lesser degree but by the pine and located sheltered by scrub vegetation gaps. Generally, the regeneration of both species is not satisfactory due to human presence and grazing existed until recently. The Aleppo pine is observed to exhibit a trend of prevalence in the region as shown by the progressive establishment of this in the gaps left by the umbrella pine.

The shrubby understorey of the forest is not continuous but occurs usually maintained where it has broken the canopy or ground water level is high enough. It is characteristic that while human presence decreases from east to west and from the beach weight inside the forest, density of vegetation following reverse. In the composition of understorey dominated by Pistacia lentiscus and follow the species Juniperus phoenicea, Quercus coccifera, Myrtus communis on wetter sites and Juniperus macrocarpa mainly on the beach, Prassium majus, Ruscus aculeatus, Smilax aspera sporadically Rhamnus alaternus. In the understory of thamonn often appears kind Rubia peregrine and in places where the canopy is more fragmented, species of phryganic formations such as Anthyllis hermaniae, Cistus incanus, Cistus salviefolius, Coridothymus capitatus and Centaurea spinosa.

The herbaceous vegetation increases with the removal of the sea due to the reduction of human presence. Of the most frequently occurring species in the herbaceous vegetation are Piptatherum miliaceum, Brachypodium retusum, Linum maritimum, Muscari commosum, Cynosurus echinatus, Silene colorata, Lagurus ovatus, Seriole aethensis, Briza media, Euphorbia peploides, Bromus rubens, Saligeria cretica, Vicia dasycarpa, Phagnalon graecum, Crucianella latifolia, Vulpia myuros, Brassica turnefortii, Knautia integrifolia, Hordeum murinum, Plantago lagopus, Erodium malacoides, Erodium cicutarium.

From the forest phytosociological terms of P.pinea - P. halepensis belongs to the association Oleo-ceratonion and plant community Oleo-lentiscetum.

H scrub vegetation found in the area is the continuation of the State closed the east forest Schinia and extends the hilly formation Mitika - Cynosure, covered by sparse shrubby vegetation. The species that dominate are Juniperus phoenicea and Olea oleaster and involved the Pistacia lentiscus, Ephedra campylopoda, Lonicera etrusca, Prassium majus and rarely the Quercus coccifera, Prunus webbii and Pistacia terebinthus. Upstairs shrubs appear also Clematis cirrhosa, Tamus communis and Bryonia alba. Among the bushes and on surfaces that have fallen shrubs installed data phryganic formations with high and low brushwood as Phlomis fruticosa, Euphorbia acanthothamnos, Euphorbia dendroides, Coridothymus capitatus, Ballota acetabulosa, Saxcropoterium spinosum, Micromeria Juliana, Micromeria graeca, Fumana Arabica, Fumana thymifolia, Phagnalon graecum.

In herbaceous vegetation there is a great variety of items and quite rightly said that Kynosoura is a wonderful botanical garden. The most frequently occurring species are Lagurus ovatus, Trifolium angustifolium, Lagoecia cuminoides, Aegilops geniculate, Urospermum picroides, Psoralea bituminosa, Nigela arvensis, Briza media, Knautia integrifolia, Tragopogon purifolius, Crupina crupinastrum, Tordylium apulum, Cyclamen neapolitanum, Fritilaria oblique, Buphleurum flavum , Avena barbata, Dactylis glomerata, Aegilops macrochaeta, Medicago disciformis, Brachypodium retusum, Brachypodium distachyon, Medicago coronata, Trifolium stellatum, Trifolium campestre.

From the viewpoint phytosociological vegetation Mitika - Cynosure subject to Oleoceratonion especially in Oleo-lentiscetum elements of Cistomicromerietea and Thero-brachypodietea.

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φορέας διαχείρισης

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εθνικού πάρκου

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The area of ​​Skhinias presents a wide variety of vegetation which reflects the varying soil and aqueous conditions. Displays while also strong image degradation and decline associated with the reckless human activity. Classified into four sections vegetation, the vegetation of sandy beaches, wetlands vegetation, forest pine (P. pinea) and Aleppo pine (P.

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Mountain Hymettos is the closest mountain to the centre of Athens and is located in the Prefecture of Attiki. In relation to its surface area, has a large variety of plant taxa that number over 600. Physiognomically, its vegetation can be distinguished into forests of Pinus halepensis and P.
brutia, degraded oaks ( Quercus coccifera), phrygana, Q. coccifera, and
agricultural areas.

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The flora of Aesthetic Forest consists of the following plant species which were used during reforestation efforts from the Philodassiki and the Ministry of Agricultural affairs.

Pinus brutia Ten.  (Calabrian pine)

Pinus halepensis Mill. (Aleppo pine)

Pinus pinea L. (Umbrella pine)

Cupressus sempervirens var. horizontalis L. (Funeral cypress spreading form)

Cupressus sempervirens var. pyramidalis L. (Funeral cypress columnar form)

Cercis siliquastrum L. (Judas tree)

Quercus pubescens Willd. (Oak)

Quercus ilex L. (Holm or Evergreen oak)

Ceratonia siliqua L. (Carob tree)

Cupressus arizonica var. glabra Greene (Cypress from Arizona)

Quercus coccifera (kermes oak)

Olea oleaster (wild olive tree)

https://www.philodassiki.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=114&Itemid=141&lang=en

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Life-form and chorological spectra of the vegetation units

of Mount Hymettus.

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The mount Parnitha is the highest mountain of Attica (1.413 m) and has one of the densest forests in Greece. In its forests what dominates is the fir tree - Abies Cephalonica at an altitude of 800-900m. Besides that, there are hollies - Quercus coccifera, oaks, arbutus and cedars- Juniperus oxycedrus, while at more wet grounds Osrtya carpinifolia, planes, poplars and Populus alba can be found. Mediterranean maquis is also abuntant.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parnitha

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Parnitha’s flora is one of the richest throughout Greece.
More specifically, 1100 types of plants grow on Parnitha out of the 6000 different species that exist in Greece. The two endemic species of Parnitha are a species of wild carnation (Dianthus serratifolius) and kabanoula (Campanula Celsii).

http://www.parnitha-np.gr/rare-threatened_species.htm

https://filotis.itia.ntua.gr/biotopes/c/GR3000001/

Fritillaria obliqua

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Kingdom: | Plantae
Clade: | Angiosperms
Clade: | Eudicots
Clade: | Asterids
Order: | Lamiales
Family: | Lamiaceae
Genus: | Rosmarinus
Species: | R. officinalis

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a woody, perennial herb with fragrant, evergreen, native to the Mediterranean region. Can be found in mountain Hymettos.

The name "rosemary" derives from the Latin for "dew" (ros) and "sea" (marinus), or "dew of the sea", and indeed Rosemary can tolerate maritime exposure. The plant is also sometimes called anthos, from the ancient Greek word ἄνθος, meaning "flower". The name of the genus was applied by the 18th-century naturalist and founding taxonomist Carl Linnaeus.

Forms range from upright to trailing. The upright forms can reach 1.5 m tall, rarely 2 m .The leaves are evergreen, 2–4 cm  long and 2–5 mm broad, green above, and white below, with dense, short, woolly hair. Flowers are white, pink, purple or deep blue. Has a fibrous root system.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosemary
image, source: https://pfaf.org/user/plant.aspx?latinname=Rosmarinus+officinalis

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Rosemary is used as a decorative plant in gardens where it may have pest control effects. The leaves are used to flavor various foods, such as stuffing and roast meats.
Rosemary contains a number of phytochemicals, including rosmarinic acid, camphor, caffeic acid, ursolic acid, betulinic acid, carnosic acid, and carnosol.
Rosemary essential oil contains 10–20% camphor.

Rosemary was traditionally used as a medicinal plant. Nowadays some research has taken place, but there are no strong evidence for its therapeutic properties. Further research is needed.

The possible  health benefits are:

Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds which are thought to help boost the immune system and improve blood circulation.

Improving digestion

Enhancing memory and concentration. According to research outlined in Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology, the aroma from rosemary can improve a person's concentration, performance, speed, and accuracy.

Neurological protection. Rosemary contains an ingredient called carnosic acid, which can fight off damage by free radicals in the brain.

Preservative activites in foods

Side effects
Rosemary is usually safe when taken in low doses. However, extremely large doses can trigger serious side effects, although this is rare.

Side effects include: vomiting, spasms, coma, pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs).

High doses of rosemary may cause miscarriage, therefore it is not advisable for pregnant women to take any supplemental rosemary.

Products containing rosemary oil may cause erythema (redness) of the skin. Caution needed if there are allergies.

Rosemary can affect the activity of some medications.

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Medicinal news today article: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/266370.php
Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties of Rosemary for the use as food preservative: https://www.mdpi.com/2305-6320/5/3/98/htm

The Therapeutic Potential of Rosemary Diterpenes for Alzheimer's Disease: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4749867/

Cognitive performance following exposure to rosemary essential oil aroma: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3736918/

Rosemarine as cause of contact dermatitis: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0301054613001547

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Kingdom: | Plantae
Clade: | Angiosperms
Clade: | Magnoliids
Order: | Laurales
Family: | Lauraceae
Genus: | Laurus
Species: | L. nobilis

The Laurel is an evergreen shrub or small tree, variable in size and sometimes reaching 7–18 m tall. It is native to Mediterranean region. Can be found in mountain Hymettos.

The Bay Laurel is dioecious (unisexual), with male and female flowers on separate plants. Each flower is pale yellow-green, about 1 cm diameter, and they are borne in pairs beside a leaf. The leaves are glabrous, 6–12 cm long and 2–4 cm broad, with an entire (untoothed) margin. On some leaves the margin undulates. The fruit is a small, shiny black berry-like drupe about 1 cm  long that contains one seed.

source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laurus_nobilis

picture: https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Laurus+nobilis

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Bay laurel's  Greek vernacular name is Daphne, which is the name of a  nymph in greek mythology.
In Ancient Greece Bay laurel was used to fashion the laurel wreath , a symbol of highest status, that was also given  as the prize at the Pythian Games.

Apollo and Daphne
by John William Waterhouse, 1908

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Whole bay leaves are used almost exclusively as flavor agents during the food preparation stage, especially in Mediterranean cuisine.
Is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant.
Traditionally it was used in herbal medicine.
Nowadays some research has been done, but there are not sufficient evidence for its medicinal properties. Further research is required.

The most abundant component found in laurel essential oil is 1,8-cineole, also called eucalyptol.

Its essential oils seems to have atimicrobial and antifungal activities. There are possible effects on the central nervous system.

There are insufficient evidence that bay laurel helps to :

control diabetes ,additionally to medication

reduce dandruff when applied to the skin

reduce joint and muscle pain (rheumatism), when applied to the skin

speed wound healing

optimize digestion

alleviate respiratory issues

Side effects

Taking large portions of essential oils and leafs is not considered safe.

Taking the whole, intact leaf by mouth is likely unsafe since it can’t be digested.

There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking bay leaf in pregnancy or breast-feeding.

Bay leaf might interfere with blood sugar control

Might slow down the central nervous system.

It can interact with medications.

sources: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-685/bay-leaf

https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/bay-leaves.html

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800px-Δάφνη_του_Απόλλωνος_ανθισμένη

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Composition of Essential Oil and Its Biological Activities: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/317339590_Laurus_nobilis_Composition_of_Essential_Oil_and_Its_Biological_Activities

Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of Laurus nobilis L. Essential Oils : https://www.researchgate.net/publication/331294456_Chemical_Composition_and_Antimicrobial_Activityof_Laurus_nobilis_L_Essential_Oils_from_Bulgaria

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Greece - State of the Environment Report 2018

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The State of the Environment Report (SoER) for Greece for 2018 was published by the National Centre for the Environment and Sustainable Development (NCSD - EKPAA). The report's aim is to offer an integrated assessment of the overall quality of Greece's environment, evaluating the effectiveness of state actions, policies and initiatives in terms of progress towards sustainability, and raising awareness regarding the most pressing ecological issues.
The 2018 Report
The SoER 2018 presents the latest, detailed information on the state of the environment in Greece in the fields of climate change, air quality, noise, nature, water, waste and horizontal environmental issues, thus providing a useful database to all stakeholders. This is the first report since 2013, when the latest State of the Environment Report for the period 2008-2011 was published.

According to the report, the state of nature and biodiversity in Greece is rather satisfactory compared to the rest of the EU, and the country has made significant progress. In recent years, there has been a considerable reduction (35%) of the ecological footprint (Greece has been placed on one of the best positions in Europe) and a respective downward trend in the carbon footprint of agriculture, livestock, forestry and fishing. Terrestrial eco-systems appear to be in better status than marine ecosystems, mainly because of overfishing. The recent significant increase of the marine protected areas included in the NATURA 2000 network is a positive advancement.

The report states that the elimination of threats to forest ecosystems, which receive the majority of pressures from various activities (mining, industry, agriculture and tourism), should be among Greece's priorities. In this regard, particular progress has been made through the establishing of forest maps, which will contribute decisively to the ability to monitor and protect the Greek forests.

It is furthermore noted that in the transport sector, the expansion of the road network should be reduced in order to curb the landscape and natural ecosystems fragmentation.Undertaking an IP LIFE programme in 2018 ensures that this problem will be resolved within the next five years. The new Law No 4519/2018 that has recently been adopted aims to ensure that all protected areas have a responsible management body.

As far as air quality is concerned, a steady improvement has been documented over the last decades. The reduction of national emissions of the main pollutants (NOx, SO2, PM2,5, NH3) is significant, mainly due to cleaner electricity production (decrease of lignite power plants in the overall energy mix, decrease of their emissions due to secondary abatement measures, energy efficiency, RES, cleaner motors for vehicles etc.). The national reduction targets of the NEC Directive for 2020, compared to 2005, have been exceeded for the majority of pollutants as early as in 2016. With regard to urban air pollution, specifically, the evolution of measured concentrations of air pollutants over time indicates either a downward trend or stabilisation tendency, depending on the pollutant.

In terms of climate change mitigation, in 2016 (most recent data), the decrease of total greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) in Greece has continued both due to the gradual transition of the energy system to a lower-emission system and due to the reduced activity because of the economic crisis. For the post-2020 period, an immediate and ambitious targeting by the state will help to achieve more pronounced reductions through appropriate investments to transform the energy system. To this end, the national plan for energy and climate is currently under development for 2030 and beyond, until 2050.

With regard to climate adaptation, and especially climate change that cannot be avoided despite the mitigation measures, for the first time there is an officially adopted national plan, a National Commission has been set up involving the co-responsible Ministries, NGOs, economic stakeholders and the academia, and an institutional framework for the drawing-up of regional strategies has been completed. All regional plans are expected to be completed by 2019.

Regarding the management of water resources, the quality of water is generally good. Coastal water systems are achieving predominantly high to good ecological status, rivers good to moderate status, while lakes and transitional waters are predominantly in moderate and / or unknown condition, due to insufficient data and lack of observation station. In terms of chemical status, all categories of surface waters are predominantly in good condition. Finally, ground waters are in good condition in their vast majority, both in qualitative and quantitative terms.

As far as sewage treatment plants are concerned, despite inherent difficulties due to the country's geomorphology (mountains, many small islands) and the seasonal population fluctuation in many tourist areas, there is steady progress, with an increase proportionate to the population served. However, it should be noted that there are no sewage treatment plants in settlements where there should be. Waste management remains the most problematic sector in Greece.

At the same time, the recycling of household waste remains constant at about 14%, one of the lowest rates in the EU. The adoption of the new National Waste Management Plan (NWMP) was a radical breakthrough, however the expected positive results have yet to manifest. It is nevertheless noted that such radical reforms require time to mature and produce tangible results. On the other hand, the extended producers' responsibility schemes have shown some very good results in some cases.The new Recycling Law 4496/2017 was a very important positive intervention which explicitly establishes the obligationto separately collect the four waste streams (paper, glass, metals, plastics) and introduces control mechanisms.
NCSD - EKPAA
The National Centre for the Environment and Sustainable Development (NCSD - EKPAA) was founded in 1999 to play a role equivalent to that of the European Environment Agency, on a national level. This regulation came into force in 2001, and the centre has been fully active since 2004. The NCESD is based in Athens and functions as an independent, non-profit organisation, supervised by the Ministry of Environment and Energy. Its areas of responsibility include climate change, biodiversity, water and waste management, and health.

The purpose of NCESD is to collect data from environmental databases, networks and institutions and to organise it in the form of reports and assessments; it also provides technical and scientific support to the Ministry of Environment and Energy, as well as other government agencies, regarding the establishment and implementation of policies and measures concerning the environment and sustainable development. The NCESD disseminates objective and reliable environmental information to end users (policy makers and general public) and raises awareness on environmental issues.

Read also via Greek news Agenda: Greece among EU's "big five" in blue economy; German Green Party MP Lisa Badum on climate change and the need to act at the EU and local level; Professor Viriato Soromenho-Marques: "Fear alone will not provide a sustainable future for the EU"; ENALEIA, the first school for professional fishing in Greece

N.M.

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Greece - State of the Environment Report 2018

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The State of the Environment Report (SoER) for Greece for 2018 was published by the National Centre for the Environment and Sustainable Development (NCSD - EKPAA). The report's aim is to offer an integrated assessment of the overall quality of Greece's environment, evaluating the effectiveness of state actions, policies and initiatives in terms of progress towards sustainability, and raising awareness regarding the most pressing ecological issues.

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Greece lies in the Mediterranean biogeographical region, with ecosystems ranging from semi-desert and maquis, to cold climate mountain forests of birch, scots pine and spruce.

Wetlands (rivers, estuaties, deltas, lagoons, shallow lakes, shallow marine formations, and marshes) cover a relatively wide area (210.000 hectares) and forests cover nearly 30% of the country's territory.
About two-thirds of the Greek territory is covered by a hilly or mountainous terrain, with the typical landscape being rugged and steep. The highest mountain peak is Mytikas in Mt Olympus (2,919 m).

Greece has a very extensive coastline of about 15,000 kilometres and about 3,000 islands, which represent 20% of the land area. The coastline is mainly rocky and sandy with about 5% wetlands.

Western Greece contains a number of lakes and wetlands and is dominated by the Pindus mountain range.
Northeastern Greece features another high-altitude mountain range, the Rhodope range.
The island of Crete is located at the southern part of the country.

Greece has three different types of climate: a Mediterranean (mild, wet winders and hot dry summers), an Alpine (Western-North Greece), and a temperate climate with cold, damp winters and hot, dry summers.

The flora of Greece is composed of Mediterranean, Central European and Irano-caspian elements. Over 6,000 plant species have been recorded so far. There is a large number of endemic species relative to the size of Greece, due to the isolation of the numerous mountains and islands.

Sources: http://www.ypeka.gr/Default.aspx?tabid=235&locale=en-US&language=el-GR

http://195.134.76.37/scinews/Reports/Rep_Env_problems2000-10.htm

image : http://www.greek-islands.us/map-greece/

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Mount Hymettos is located at the eastern side of the Athens Basin and has a total area of ​​81,230 acres.
The flora of the mountain includes about 650 taxonomic units (species, subspecies) of which 54 are endemic in Greece.

Key environmental stress factors for plants

Hymettos has Mediterranean climate (dry and warm summer and mild and rainy winter).

Plants have to be tolerant in high temperatures in the summer and rare rainfalls even in the winter. Droughts and heatwaves have been recorded.

Wildfires are also critical for the plants growth and survival. Plants that grow faster after a wildfire can be benefited.

Air - water pollution and bad quality of the soil, due to the proximity to the city are also some stress factors.
Parasites, like pine processionary caterpillar, are harmful for some plants too.

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Alexander von Humboldt was a prominent Prussian polymath, naturalist and explorer of the 18th -19th century (1769-1859).

Humboldt's quantitative work on botanical geography and his advocacy for long-term systematic geophysical measurements laid the foundations for the fields of biogeography modern  geomagnetic and meteorological monitoring. His work on the propagation of seismic waves also became the basis of modern seismology.
He was the first person to describe the phenomenon and cause of human-induced climate change, based on observations generated during his travels.

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Cosmos, his famous work, was an influential treatise on science and nature, based on his observations from his explorations in South America and Asia.
Cosmos had a great influence to scientists, laymen and artists of 19th century. Not only for its scientific recordings  but also for the attempt to describe the world by unifying science, nature and humankind.
For the same  reasons is still considered a work of significant value.

Passage from Wikipedia's article:

Humboldt's basic purpose is outlined in the introduction to the first volume of Cosmos:

"The most important aim of all physical science is this: to recognize unity in diversity, to comprehend all the single aspects as revealed by the discoveries of the last epochs, to judge single phenomena separately without surrendering their bulk, and to grasp Nature's essence under the cover of outer appearances."

Animated video about Alexander von Humboldt

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Who is Alexander von Humboldt? - George Mehler

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Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexander_von_Humboldt

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cosmos_(Humboldt)

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In the Andes, the longest continental mountain range in the world, located in south America, tree species are ‘on the run’, trying to move to ground of higher altitude. They are shifting roughly 2.5 to 3.5 vertical meters a year on average, but in fact they need to migrate more than 20 vertical feet a year!

I believe the right answer is:
2. Tropical Andean trees migrate to higher altitudes where the air is cool enough to support their existence. Due to the fast climatic change they have to move faster in order to remain in equilibrium with their preferred temperatures.

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The climate in Greece is typical of the Mediterranean climate, which is mild and rainy winters, relatively warm and dry summers with, generally, long sunshine duration almost all the year. A great variety of climate subtypes, always in the Mediterranean climate frame, are encountered in several regions of Greece. This is due to the influence of topography (great mountain chains along the central part and other mountainous bodies) on the air coming from the moisture sources of the central Mediterranean Sea.

The mean annual average temperature ranges between less than 8°C up to 19.8 °C. The lowest values occur mainly at the mountain peaks of northern Greece and the highest at the southernmost coastal areas of Crete and at the Athens basin.

The mean annual precipitation amount ranges from less than 300 mm in the Cyclades, up to more than 2 000 mm, mainly in Pindos.
http://climatlas.hnms.gr/sdi/?lang=EN

http://www.hnms.gr/emy/en/climatology/climatology?

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The climate in Greece is predominantly Mediterranean. However, due to the country's unique geography, Greece has a remarkable range of micro-climates and local variations. To the west of the Pindus mountain range, the climate is generally wetter and has some maritime features. The east of the Pindus mountain range is generally drier and windier in summer.

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Annual mean temperature in Attica region

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Climatic Data by City,HNMS, Hellenic National Meteorological Service

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Climatic Data by City,HNMS, Hellenic National Meteorological Service. Î"ÎµÎ½Î¹ÎºÎ® Î ÏÏŒÎ³Î½Ï‰ÏƒÎ· ÎšÎ±Î¹ÏÎ¿Ï Î*Î"Î"Î¬Î´Î±Ï‚, Î'Ï„Ï„Î¹ÎºÎ®Ï‚, Î˜ÎµÏƒÏƒÎ±Î"Î¿Î½Î¯ÎºÎ·Ï‚. Î"ÎµÎ"Ï„Î¯Î± ÎšÎ±Î¹ÏÎ¿Ï, Î ÏÏŒÎ³Î½Ï‰ÏƒÎ· ÎÎ±Ï...Ï„Î¹Î"Î¯Î±Ï‚, Î ÏÎ¿ÎµÎ¹Î´Î¿Ï€Î¿Î¹Î®ÏƒÎµÎ¹Ï‚ Î˜Ï...ÎµÎ"Î"Ï‰Î´ÏŽÎ½ Î'Î½Î­Î¼Ï‰Î½ Î'Î½Î±Ï„Î¿Î"Î¹ÎºÎ®Ï‚ ÎœÎµÏƒÎ¿Î³ÎµÎ¯Î¿Ï... ÎºÎ±Î¹ ÎœÎ±ÏÏÎ·Ï‚ Î˜Î¬Î"Î±ÏƒÏƒÎ±Ï‚. Î ÏÎ¿Î³Î½Ï‰ÏƒÏ„Î¹ÎºÎ¿Î¯ Î§Î¬ÏÏ„ÎµÏ‚ ÎºÎ±Î¹ Î ÏÎ¿Î³Î½Ï‰ÏƒÏ„Î¹ÎºÎ¬ Î ÏÎ¿ÏŠÏŒÎ½Ï„Î±

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In the last decades the average
temperature in Greece seems to be increasing.

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Minimum average temperature in winter-Greece

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Maximum average temperature in summer-Greece

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Number of dry days- Greece

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Numbers of days with extreme fire risk-Greece

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Precipitation rates in Athens  seem to be slightly decreased from 1986 to 2000.

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Mean temperature in Athens was increased from 1990-2000

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Mean annual sunshine in Athens

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Extreme weather conditions such as droughts, heavy rainfalls and heatwaves have been recorded in the last years.

Source: http://www.hnms.gr/emy/en/climatology/climatology_extreme?

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http://www.hnms.gr/emy/en/climatology/climatology?

https://www.dianeosis.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/climate_change10.pdf

http://www.oikoskopio.gr/map/index.php?lng=en-US

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1. Agiorgitiko is a red Greek wine grape variety cultivated in Athens and other regions of Greece. In 2012, was the most widely planted  variety in Greece.
Vitis vinifera is its plant source material, which can also be found in Mt Hymettos.

Savatiano is a white Greek wine grape variety cultivated in Athens, close to mountain Hymettos (e.g. Pikermi). It is used primary in the wine Retsina.

https://www.wine-searcher.com/regions-attica
source: https://wikivisually.com/wiki/Agiorgitiko

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2. Liqueur pomegranate

Plant source material is the fruits Punica granatum, which can be found in Attica region.
Also liqueur krana and lemon are quite popular.

Recipes
https://www.argiro.gr/recipe/liker-rodi/

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Οργάνωση Σπιτιού, Νοικοκυριό & Εξοικονόμηση - MAKE LiFE

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Το καλοκαίρι που έχετε χρόνο ελεύθερο είναι η κατάλληλη στιγμή να ετοιμάσετε τα σπιτικά λικεράκια σας, τα οποία θα σας κρατούν συντροφιά τις κρύες νύχτες του χειμώνα. Σε μια γιορτή το λικέρ επανέρχεται ως κλασικό κέρασμα, για να αφήσει τους καλεσμένους σας ευχαριστημένους. Θα εντυπωσιαστείτε αν διαπιστώσετε πόσο εύκολο είναι να παρασκευαστεί. Χρειάζονται φθηνά και αγνά υλικά, λίγοι μήνες αναμονής και θα έχετε ασύγκριτη απόλαυση για έναν ολόκληρο χρόνο. Επίσης αν μπει το λικέρ σε ένα όμορφο μπουκάλι μπορεί να μετατραπεί σε μοναδικό και κυρίως οικονομικό δώρο για έναν φίλο που ξέρει να εκτιμά τις σπιτικές λιχουδιές.

Λικέρ με Κράνα

Τα κράνα έχουν αντιοξειδωτικές ιδιότητες και είναι πλούσια σε βιταμίνες και μέταλλα. Έχουν μεγάλη θεραπευτική αξία με περισσότερο γνωστή τη συμβολή τους στον κοιλόπονο και στις στομαχικές διαταραχές. Ένα ποτηράκι λικέρ κράνα, επομένως, μπορεί να αποδειχθεί ιδιαίτερα τονωτικό και θεραπευτικό σε μια δύσκολη μέρα.

Υλικά
2 κιλά κράνα ώριμα (να έχουν βαθύ κόκκινο χρώμα)
1/2 κιλό ζάχαρη
1 κιλό κονιάκ

Εκτέλεση
Βάζετε τα κράνα εναλλάξ με τη ζάχαρη μέσα σε μεγάλο γυάλινο βάζο. Η τελευταία στρώση να είναι με ζάχαρη. Αφήνετε το βάζο για δυο μήνες στον ήλιο κουνώντας το ανά διαστήματα για να ανακατεύεται το μείγμα. Όταν λιώσει καλά η ζάχαρη, βάζετε το κονιάκ. Αφήνετε άλλες 15-20 μέρες. Σουρώνετε και μοιράζετε σε αποστειρωμένα μπουκάλια. Τα μπουκάλια διατηρούνται στο ψυγείο ή στο ντουλάπι μέχρι 12 μήνες.

Λικέρ μέντα

Οποιοδήποτε ρόφημα περιέχει μέντα αποκτά έντονο άρωμα και υπέροχη πικάντικη γεύση. Οι ιδιότητες της μέντας είναι κυρίως αντισηπτικές, χωνευτικές και τονωτικές. Έτσι ένα λικέρ μέντας είναι απαραίτητο να υπάρχει στο σπίτι για να χαρίζει καθαρή αναπνοή, να σας ξεδιψάει και να σας δροσίζει.

Υλικά
2 ματσάκια φρέσκια μέντα
700 ml βότκα
300 γρ ζάχαρη
230 ml νερό εμφιαλωμένο (για να μην έχει πολύ χλώριο)

Εκτέλεση
Πλένετε πολύ καλά τα φύλλα μέντας και τα ακουμπάτε σε απορροφητικό χαρτί κουζίνας για να στεγνώσουν. Τα βάζετε μετά σε γυάλινο βάζο, περιχύνετε με τη βότκα και σφραγίζετε. Το βάζο μπαίνει στο ψυγείο και το ξεχνάτε εκεί για δυο βδομάδες. Κατόπιν σουρώνετε το υγρό από τα φυλλαράκια και ξεκινάτε το σιρόπι. Βράζετε σε κατσαρόλα το νερό με τη ζάχαρη περίπου πέντε λεπτά, μέχρι να αρχίσει να πήζει. Αφού κρυώσει το σιρόπι, ρίχνετε την βότκα που έχει αρωματιστεί με τη μέντα και γεμίζετε τα αποστειρωμένα μπουκάλια. Αφού μείνει άλλες δυο βδομάδες στο ψυγείο είναι έτοιμο για κατανάλωση. Διατηρείται στο ψυγείο ένα χρόνο.

Λικέρ Λεμόνι (Limoncello)

Το λεμόνι έχει πολλές ωφέλιμες ουσίες για τον ανθρώπινο οργανισμό με σημαντικότερη τη βιταμίνη C, η οποία θωρακίζει από την γρίπη και το κρυολόγημα. Βοηθά επίσης στη δυσπεψία και γι' αυτό ένα λικέρ λεμόνι είναι ιδανικό χωνευτικό για μετά το φαγητό.

Υλικά
12 λεμόνια βιολογικά (για να είναι ακέρωτα)
700 ml βότκα
500 γραμμάρια ζάχαρη
350 ml εμφιαλωμένο νερό

Εκτέλεση
Πλένετε τα λεμόνια πολύ σχολαστικά. Με το εργαλείο ξεφλουδίσματος λαχανικών αφαιρείτε τις φλούδες τους, προσέχοντας να μην αφαιρέσετε και τη λευκή σάρκα, γιατί θα πικρίζει το λικέρ. Ρίχνετε τη βότκα με τις λεμονόφλουδες μέσα σε αποστειρωμένο γυάλινο βάζο και το αφήνετε 20 περίπου μέρες σε δροσερό και σκιερό μέρος. Όταν περάσουν οι μέρες, ετοιμάζετε το σιρόπι. Βράζετε σε κατσαρόλα το νερό και ρίχνετε τη ζάχαρη. Ανακατεύετε και συνεχίζετε το βράσιμο για πέντε λεπτά σε μέτρια θερμοκρασία. Στη συνέχεια το αφήνετε να κρυώσει καλά. Αφαιρείτε με σουρωτήρι τις λεμονόφλουδες από την αρωματισμένη πλέον βότκα και την αναμειγνύετε με το σιρόπι. Με ένα τουλπάνι, ή φίλτρο γαλλικού καφέ, φιλτράρετε 3-4 φορές το λικέρ μέχρι να είναι διαυγές και το φυλάσσετε σε αποστειρωμένα μπουκάλια στο ψυγείο μέχρι ένα χρόνο.

Your Turn!

Αν έχετε να προσθέσετε κάτι ακόμη ή απλά να μοιραστείτε τη δική σας εμπειρία, αφήστε το προσωπικό σας σχόλιο!

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ΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΙΑ ΜΠΟΓΙΟΓΛΟΥ

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Τρία λικέρ για κάθε περίσταση: κράνα, μέντα, λεμόνι

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Το καλοκαίρι που έχετε χρόνο ελεύθερο είναι η κατάλληλη στιγμή να ετοιμάσετε τα σπιτικά λικεράκια σας, τα οποία θα σας κρατούν συντροφιά τις κρύες νύχτες του χειμώνα. Σε μια γιορτή το λικέρ επανέρχεται ως κλασικό κέρασμα, για να αφήσει τους καλεσμένους σας ευχαριστημένους. Θα εντυπωσιαστείτε αν διαπιστώσετε πόσο εύκολο είναι να παρασκευαστεί.

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1. Trees of genus Abies

2. Viscum album-European mistletoe

3. Euphorbia pulcherrima- poinsettia

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1. Legumes- Lentil Soup
2. Vine leafs- Greek dolmades

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Greek Dolmades - Stuffed Vine Leaves | Akis Kitchen

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1. Oregano- Origanum vulgare
2. Thyme- Thymus atticus

Oregano: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oregano

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Theophrastus was a Greek native of Eresos in Lesvos ( 371 – 287 BC).
He is often considered the father of botany for his works on plants. His two surviving botanical works, Enquiry into Plants (Historia Plantarum) and On the Causes of Plants, were an important influence on Renaissance science and constitute the most important contribution to botanical science during antiquity and the Middle Ages.

In the  Enquiry into Plants, Theophrastus described plants by their uses, and attempted a biological classification based on how plants reproduced.
His treatise On the Causes of Plants concerns the growth of plants, the influences on their fecundity etc. Also describes the smells, tastes, and properties of many types of plants. The work deals mainly with the economical uses of plants.
Among other things Theophrastus detected the process of germination and realized the importance of climate and soil to plants.

Nowadays his work is considered important since it includes the first valuable observations concerning the functions and properties of plants and one of the first systems of plant classification.

Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theophrastus

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Historia_Plantarum_(Theophrastus)#Reception

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Endemic of Attica region.
Location: Mt Parnitha, Mt Pateras, Mt Aigaleo.
Threats

Military infrastructure, antennas, roads, wildfires.

Wildfires should be considered a serious threat. It is unknown if Aspecula baenitzii has mechanisms to overcome damage from wildfires.

Protection

Presidential Decree 67/1981

Natura 2000 legal framework is applied: Only activities of scientific research, recreation and environmental education are allowed.

http://floraattica.blogspot.com/2018/02/asperula-baenitzi.html

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2. Sideritis raeseri Boiss. and Heldr. subsp. attica (VU)

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2. Sideritis raeseri Boiss. and Heldr. subsp. attica (VU)

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Endemic of Greece.
Location: Parnitha, Pateras, Kithaironas.
Threats

Military and communications facilities.

Recreational activities.

Plant collecting from individuals (for tea making).

Overgrazing and wildfires are possible threats.

Protection

Natura 2000

Authors of the report at Red Data Book of Rare and Threatened Plants of Greece (2009) propose: Reinforcement of environmental awareness and scientific research. Meticulous planning when roads construction is needed. Fencing and ex situ conservation and cultivation if the demand as an aromatic herbal is high.

http://floraattica.blogspot.com/2018/03/sideritis-raeseri-subsp-attica.html

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Endemic of Greece.
Location: Hymettos, Parnitha, Penteli,  Pateras.
Threats

Residential constructions (Mt Hymettos).

Recreational activities.

Protection

Natura 2000 Network.

In the last decade there are restrictions in construction.  The author proposes strict enforcement of the existing legal framework (RDB-2009)

http://floraattica.blogspot.com/2013/05/consolida-tenuissima.html

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4. Fritillaria obliqua Ker-Gawler ssp. οbliqua (NT)

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4. Fritillaria obliqua Ker-Gawler ssp. οbliqua (NT)

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Endemic of Attica, Evia.
Location: Schinias Marathina, Penteli, Parnitha, Merenta-Markopoulos, Evia.
Enangered on Europe's IUCN Red List
Threats

Infrastructure

Recreational activities

Plant collection from individuals

Protection

Is included in IUCN Redlist catalogues

Precidential Decrees for the protection of Greek flora

Natura 2000

Further  scientific research is needed in order to record all of the populations.

http://floraattica.blogspot.com/2014/03/fritillaria-obliqua.html

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Location: Peloponesse, Taygetus, Hymettos.
Vulnerable on IUCN Red List.
Threats

Urbanisation

Construction work

Residential building

Tourism activities

The use of herbicides and pesticides affects the species indirectly

Protection

Natura 2000

Presidential Drecree  of 67/1981

Second Appendix of CITES about trafficing of wildlife

http://floraattica.blogspot.com/2016/06/ophrys-argolica.html

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The m ain threats for the described plants are :

Construction works (roads, residencies)

Wildfires

Recreational and tourism activities

Plant collection and overgrazing

Actions for protection

Not specific plans for each species. More scientific data is required.

Management organisations (responsible for environmental education, monitoring etc)

Natura 2000 Network

Presidential Decrees

CITES

Scientific research

Please take into account that my reference for the status of the first three species is The Red Data Book  of Rare and Threatened Plants of Greece, published in 2009. Likely some populations have increased.
These species are endemic and can be found only in few areas that have intense human activity. So, their protection and monitoring is still important.

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In my opinion it is imperative to reinforce the practical application of some conservation
measures.
Mt Hymettos

Strict measures must be taken for the illegal building construction and the protection from wildfires.

Expansion of the zones of absolute protection would be beneficial for the ecosystem.

Strict control of road constructions, communication  and military, infrastructure.

Restriction or prohibition of agricultural activities.

2017- 2018 hunting prohibition should be continue, if necessary.

Public awareness in order to improve visitors's behavior (garbage, plant collection etc)

Mt Parnitha

Strict control of road constructions, communication and military infrastructure.

Strict measures must be taken for the illegal building construction and and the protection from wildfires.

Public awareness (garbage, plant collection)

Schinias- Marathonas National park

Reinforcement of wildfire protection system.

Public awareness for improvement of visitors's behavior (garbage, plant collection), especially alongshore

Expansion of the zones of absolute protection would be beneficial for the ecosystem.

In all three areas

More educational projects are needed.

Urgent need for in regular basis data collection, in-depth comprehensive environmental studies  and monitoring of rare, endemic and threatened species.

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Publication Committee: D. Phoitos - T. Konstantinidis - G. Kamari. Hellenic Botanical Society. Red Data Book of Rare and Threatened Plants of Greece (2009), Greek version:

http://www.hbs.gr/en/activities/publications/24-1

Fritillaria obliqua Ker Gawl. IUCN status: https://eunis.eea.europa.eu/species/Fritillaria%20obliqua#threat_status

Amateur's blog for Greek flora. Fritillaria obliqua:
http://florahellenica.blogspot.com/2011/10/fritillaria-obliqua.html
Ophrys Argolica IUCN status:
https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/162112/5541120
Amateur's blog for Greek flora. Orphys Argolica: https://www.greekflora.gr/el/flowers/1469/Ophrys-argolica
Vascular plants of Greece: An annotated checklist (Dimopoulos & al. 2013), http://portal.cybertaxonomy.org/flora-greece/intro, accessed 22/3/2019

NATURA 2000 Dataforms for Schinia-Marathona National Park, Parnitha, Hymettos:
http://natura2000.eea.europa.eu/Natura2000/SDF.aspx?site=GR3000003

http://natura2000.eea.europa.eu/Natura2000/SDF.aspx?site=GR3000001

http://natura2000.eea.europa.eu/Natura2000/SDF.aspx?site=GR3000006

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The threat of climate change and the knowledge that it is related to CO₂ emissions from fossil fuels has led scientists to look for alternatives for our energy needs, that is in the cultivation of biofuel crops.
I believe that

We are still strongly depended on fossil fuels and only the developed countries of the world have the technology and therefore the luxury of using green energy.

Replacing fossil fuels with biofuels is highly controversial since it solves one problem but creates new ones.

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Actions from a local volunteer organization could have a positive impact on the protection of the mentioned areas. This could happen through the following steps :
1. Collect scientific data, in order to understand witch areas, plants, need protection.
2. Set specific goals, strategy plans ( if needed for individual  plant species, e.g. in situ, ex situ propagation).
3. Increase environmental awareness. Run educational projects at schools, at the field, events at the city center. E.g. Planting trees, cleaning of areas, awareness for wildfires.
4. Engage individuals. Weekly events- gathering activities, such as hiking, excursions, movie nights, presentations with environmental and cultural subject, recreational activities (such as climbing, slacklining), collaborative cooking etc., could improve the team spirit.
5. Should have a legal department. Monitoring on the application of the legal framework. Apply pressure and objections when needed.
6. Demand for more scientific research and the creation or improvement of digital plantbanks.
7. Create fund raising campaigns for the realization of the mentioned goals.

All of the above should happen in collaboration with museums, botanical gardens, universities, Ngo's and other environmental organizations.

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The organization should focus on:

The collaboration with other environmental groups

The engagement of individuals. With ultimate goal the understanding of natural word  and the threats that is facing. This could possibly lead to a long term positive change of citizens's every day attitude

Community spirit and team work

Education, scientific approach

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Foldscope, exploration of the microcosmos.

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Foldscope Paper Microscopes | Portable Microscopes

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Foldscope makes science more accessible. Our foldable paper microscopes are low-cost devices that bring the wonders of the microscopic world to all.

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You can make your own 3d model of your favourite plant.

https://sketchfab.com/models/categories/nature-plants

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hellip; - Plant - Download Free 3D model by theovasilis (@theovasilis)

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Citizen science
https://mashable.com/2016/08/12/citizen-science-wildlife-nature/?europe=true#xWAnIvHCymqu

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The Art & Science of Citizen Science

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Ted Barone, Ed.D. Like any good art, Citizen Science is a veritable stew of craftsmanship, expertise, inventiveness, and cultural awareness. It typically locates the rigors of scientific study in the context of pressing environmental challenges and relies on the diversity of volunteers in its implementation.

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There are similarities with other Mediterranean countries such as Portugal, as far as concerns the types of habitats and plant species.

There are different threats for different countries. E.g. Water pollution and change of the water level in Belgium.

Business plans of some plantareas also focus on education and citizen engagement.

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Photo: Mt Hymettos