Why is Athens facing a housing challenge?
Athens is grappling with high housing costs and the effects of climate change. The city's infrastructure, originally designed for a different climate, now requires adaptation. Professor Konstantinos Kartalis from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens highlighted at Prodexpo 2026 that urban planning must evolve to enhance city resilience.
What is the Build to Rent model?
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis proposed the Build to Rent model to increase housing supply. This involves constructing properties specifically for long-term rental, offering incentives like additional building rights, tax exemptions, and faster permits. The goal is to provide affordable housing while maintaining properties for long-term leases.
Controversy and reactions
The proposal for additional building floors has sparked debate. Critics, including PASOK's leader Nikos Androulakis, warn of urban canyons, while others suggest using public land for social housing. Athens Mayor Haris Doukas advocates for utilizing existing vacant properties instead of more concrete development.
How does climate change impact urban planning in Athens?
Climate change necessitates a new urban design approach in Athens. Rising temperatures and extreme weather events require cities to adapt their infrastructure. Professor Kartalis emphasized the need for a new regulatory framework, as current plans are outdated. The focus is on sustainable development that integrates green spaces and reduces vehicle emissions.
What role do energy efficiency programs play?
Energy efficiency is crucial for sustainable urban development. The "Exoikonomo" programs aim to upgrade building energy performance but need broader approaches. Professor Margarita Nikis Asimakopoulou noted that many buildings overheat in summer due to a focus on winter heating needs. Comprehensive renovations should address solar radiation control and indoor air quality.
Structural safety concerns
Energy upgrades often overlook structural safety. The Technical Chamber of Greece's president, Giorgos Stasinos, advocates linking energy programs with structural assessments to ensure building safety and resilience.
What are the future investment plans for energy efficiency?
Greece plans to invest over €1 billion in energy resilience by 2028. The European Commission approved an extension of the national escape clause to include energy-related expenses. Investments will focus on energy storage, conservation, and infrastructure, enhancing the country's energy resilience.
How is public property being utilized?
Public property management is a key focus at Prodexpo 2026. The aim is to transform unused assets into productive capital, generating revenue, jobs, and infrastructure with social impact. Michalis Anagnostakos from the National Development Fund emphasized evaluating public assets as national capital rather than isolated properties.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Build to Rent model?
The Build to Rent model involves constructing properties for long-term rental, offering incentives to developers for affordable housing solutions.
Why is climate change a concern for Athens?
Climate change affects Athens' infrastructure, requiring adaptation to rising temperatures and extreme weather for sustainable urban planning.
What are "Exoikonomo" programs?
"Exoikonomo" programs focus on energy efficiency upgrades for buildings, aiming to improve energy performance and reduce environmental impact.
How does public property contribute to urban development?
Public property can be transformed into productive assets, generating economic and social benefits through strategic management and development.
What are the investment plans for energy efficiency in Greece?
Greece plans to invest over €1 billion by 2028 in energy resilience, focusing on storage, conservation, and infrastructure improvements.
Key takeaways
- Athens faces housing and climate change challenges, requiring sustainable urban planning.
- The Build to Rent model aims to increase affordable housing through long-term rental properties.
- Energy efficiency programs need comprehensive approaches for effective building upgrades.
- Public property management can drive economic and social development in Athens.
- Greece plans significant investments in energy resilience to enhance sustainability.
Conclusion
Athens is at a crossroads, facing the dual challenges of housing affordability and climate change. The city's response involves innovative solutions like the Build to Rent model and comprehensive energy efficiency programs. By integrating sustainable urban planning and strategic public property management, Athens aims to create a resilient and livable city for the future.
