The Environmental Quality Observatory of Syros, in cooperation with the Municipality of Syros – Ermoupolis and the KEPEA of Syros – Ermoupolis, has recently implemented tree planting activities in Ermoupolis, aiming to protect and upgrade the environment, as well the active participation and education of the local community and, in particular, children.
Pupils and teachers, members of the Observatory and employees of the Municipality of Syros and Ermoupolis participated in the tree plantings. The species planted were carefully selected to suit the environment of Syros and be resistant and suitable for public spaces. The watering of the trees has been undertaken by both the students who participated in the plantings and the residents of the neighborhoods, with whom we are in communication with, reinforcing in practice the logic of collective care of the public space.
Specifically, on the road above the 6th Primary School, the 5th and 6th Primary School classes planted six carob trees. In Lalakia and in the parking lot next to the Forest Service, the Environmental Team of the 2ndGymnasium planted eight oleanders and six cypresses. In Heroes’ Square and on Episkopio Andreas Papandreou Street, where the Hospital is located, the 3rd grade of the 4th Experimental Primary School planted a pine tree, three bitter orange trees, two carob trees and two pepper trees. In the area of the Gallery of Cyclades, the 4th grade of the 3rd Primary School planted seven ficus, four myopora, four oleanders and three carob trees.
The Environmental Quality Observatory of Syros does not treat these actions as fragmentary or “symbolic”. It seeks substantive interventions, which show how the image of the city can change when there is a plan, cooperation of the local community and political will. Tree planting, in collaboration with the competent bodies, will continue both on the island’s beaches but also in other public places and beds that today remain unused.
A green environment is not a luxury option; It is a necessary condition for our quality of life and should be a constant priority for all of us.
Ermoupoli, 17.12.2025
