Aitoliko: citizens for the climate

The small island town of Aitoliko, situated roughly at the centre of the Aitoliko–Messolonghi lagoon, is a typical example of a small provincial town under pressure from the explosive mix of climate change impacts and the widening urban–rural divide—namely, the concentration of population, power, resources, and opportunities in major urban centres. These conditions intensify citizens’ concerns about the fragile ecosystem on which they depend, directly or indirectly, for their own survival and that of future generations. At the same time, there is a striking absence of a meeting space for those directly affected by climate change—both among themselves and with those responsible for shaping alternative policies.

A way forward has been found globally through Citizens’ Climate Assemblies: participatory processes that mobilize citizens and engage them organically in policymaking, placing particular emphasis on inclusion and combining environmental protection with the strengthening of democracy.

Maintaining the same spirit of encounter, experimentation, and collective exploration that characterised the highly successful research programme Vanishing Landscapes, the Heinrich-Böll Stiftung Thessaloniki and TAVROS, in collaboration with the Cultural Association To Aitoliko and Messolonghi by Locals, are organising a two-day event on climate under the title Aitoliko: citizens for the climate, taking place on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 December 2025 in Aitoliko.

We invite you to reflect on the delicate balance that connects the natural and human environment and to engage in discussions around questions such as:
– What emotions does the phrase “climate change” evoke? In what ways does it affect each and every one of us?
– How do we speak about climate? Are data alone enough to foster a connection with nature and the environment?
– How do our individual experiences shape our attitudes and perceptions of climate change?

These events are part of a broader initiative leading to the implementation of the first Citizens’ Climate Assembly in Greece, to be held in Aitoliko in 2026.

This programme is part of the broader initiative ΚΛΙΜΑ+ΠΟΛΕΙΣ+ΕΜΕΙΣ (CLIMATE+CITIES+US), supported by the Heinrich Böll Foundation – Thessaloniki Office, Greece, which fosters collaborations and the development of knowledge and skills toward utilising Citizens’ Climate Assemblies as a tool that combines environmental protection with the strengthening of democracy—two equally essential components for a good quality of everyday life and a positive outlook for the future.

The full programme will be announced soon.