The Municipality of Rethymno is on the front lines for environmental protection

On the occasion of World Environment Day 2025, which this year has as its slogan “Blow Plastic Pollution”, the Municipality of Rethymno stands out as one of the most active examples of local government in Greece in the fight for environmental sustainability and the protection of natural resources. As emphasized by the Mayor of Rethymno and President of the Local Government of Crete, Giorgis Marinakis, tackling plastic pollution is now a vital priority, as the consequences for ecosystems and human health are worryingly severe.

The Municipality has implemented a series of important initiatives, most notably its participation in the European project PLASTECO, part of the INTERREG EUROPE program, in which it participated as lead partner. The project aimed to support the regions of the European Union in addressing plastic waste and water pollution through circular economy policies and the reduction of microplastics.

As part of the project, a Local Plastic Waste Management Action Plan was developed, resulting in the reduction of the use of single-use plastics, the promotion of innovative solutions, and the strengthening of international cooperation on environmental policy issues.

At the same time, the Municipality of Rethymno has consistently invested in informing and raising awareness among citizens, with actions that touch every age and social group. Through educational programs, collaborations with schools, local bodies, and volunteers, a new environmental culture has been formed in the city. Strengthening recycling and the rational management of natural resources are also key axes of the Municipality's strategic plan for environmental protection and the prevention of future risks to public health.

Mr. Marinakis, in his message, recalled that, according to the UN, approximately 11 million tons of plastic end up in the planet's aquatic ecosystems every year, burdening not only the environment but also local economies and societies. Plastic pollution, as he notes, exacerbates the "triple planetary crisis": climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. In this context, local government is called upon to play an active role in halting environmental degradation, not only through institutional initiatives but also by strengthening citizen participation.

The Municipality of Rethymno, with continuous effort, innovation, and international orientation, manages to be an example of how a local society can stand up to global environmental challenges.