As part of the project “Management Actions for Protected Areas, Species and Habitats in the Area of Responsibility of the Former Management Body of the Schinias–Marathon National Park, Hymettus and Southeastern Attica”, which was successfully implemented by Lever – Development Consultants S.A., a member of the Samaras & Associates Group, the Geotechnical Chamber of Greece (GEOTEE) proposed the presentation of the study’s findings regarding Mount Hymettus at the conference titled:
Εικόνα 1 Χάρτης με την περιοχή μελέτης.
“Hymettus Tomorrow: Protection, Management, and Connection with Society”, held in Ilioupoli on March 2–3, 2024
At the conference, a presentation was delivered titled:
“The Potential Impacts of Visitors on Mount Hymettus – Proposed Management Measures.”
Hymettus is home to rich plant biodiversity relative to its size (600 plant species and subspecies) and is characterized by high geo-diversity (great variety of terrain features), including important karstic caves, such as the Nymfoliptos and Sykia caves.
The presentation thoroughly outlined the environmental pressures Mount Hymettus faces, particularly those arising from visitor activity.
Following the identification of these pressures, the management and development measures proposed by Lever – Development Consultants S.A. for the area were presented. The proposals focus on the following key areas:
Visitor numbers and categories: The mountain’s carrying capacity for visitors is directly linked to its sustainability. Equally important is the type of visitors, their level of awareness, and the recreational activities they engage in.
Visitor control: Specific proposals were made for regulating the number of visitors and addressing harmful behaviors from either unlawful or uninformed individuals.
Infrastructure (Special trails, accessibility for people with disabilities): The construction of dedicated trails and ADA-compliant infrastructure reflects a commitment to inclusivity and culture.
Public awareness (Environmental education): Informing the public about Hymettus enhances ecological awareness and emphasizes its environmental significance.
Themed walking routes (Geo-trails, thematic paths): These structured trails aim to protect Hymettus by guiding visitor movement and preventing unrestricted wandering.
Management practices (supervision, area utilization): Alternative management practices were suggested that minimize harm to the area.
Scientific monitoring (academic and research institutions): Ongoing scientific monitoring, especially in areas experiencing notable environmental degradation, is deemed critical.
Restoration of the natural environment (removal of structures, debris): Recommendations were made for interventions to restore damaged natural areas, such as removing illegal constructions or accumulated debris.
Surveillance (technological tools, increased patrols, fire prevention): The study identified inadequate surveillance. Strengthening staff presence, using technological monitoring solutions, and protecting currently unguarded protected areas are key needs.
The proposed measures are expected to significantly contribute to the protection and improvement of the area.
The presentation, delivered by Mr. Vasilis Anagnostou from Lever – Development Consultants S.A., highlighted the company’s scientific work and offered well-founded, responsible information to citizens and institutions engaged in the protection and promotion of Mount Hymettus.
