The Movement of Ecologists – Citizens’ Cooperation took part in a protest on Sunday, October 4, supporting communities opposing the planned asphalt plant in the area of Mitsero.
The protest, held on the Agios Ioannis–Kato Moni road, was organised by residents and the “Communities in Action” initiative over concerns about the potential impact of the proposed facility on air quality, public health and the environment.
Calls for updated environmental assessment
In a statement, the Movement said the area is already affected by multiple nuisance activities and stressed that environmental assessments of new facilities should consider cumulative impacts, the area’s capacity and potential exposure of residents to pollutants.
It also said decisions should be based on updated scientific data, the precautionary principle and transparent procedures, with particular attention to children and vulnerable groups.
The Movement called for work to be suspended and for an updated, independent scientific assessment of the potential environmental and public health impacts.
It also called for meaningful participation by affected communities, access to relevant data and evidence-based responses from the authorities.
Concerns over rural communities
The Movement was particularly critical of government policy towards the area, arguing that while measures are being announced to support rural communities, decisions concerning Mitsero and Kato Moni are moving in the opposite direction.
According to the Movement, further environmental pressure could create conditions that encourage residents to leave their communities and seek permanent homes in urban areas. It also warned that such policies could contribute to the devaluation and sale of properties in the area.
Ecologists pledge continued support
The Movement stressed that relocating a potentially polluting activity does not, in itself, solve an environmental problem.
It said the protection of public health and the environment should be a primary consideration in every relevant decision and pledged to continue supporting affected communities and their right to a healthy and safe environment.
Protest planned outside Supreme Court
A protest is due to take place outside the Supreme Court on Monday, with demonstrators expected to oppose the construction of the facility.
The mobilisation comes as the Supreme Court is expected to issue a decision on a request to suspend construction work on the project.
Also read: ‘We want clean air:’ Protest in Mitsero over asphalt plant
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