On December 19, 2024, Maria Damanaki, , co-founder of Leading Women for the Ocean, delivered an impactful presentation during the event “Greece and Climate Crisis: Consequences and Human Apathy” organized by DIKTIO – Network for Reform in Greece and Europe. Held at the B&M Theocharakis Visual Arts & Music Foundation, the event highlighted both the challenges posed by climate change and the untapped opportunities it presents for Greece and beyond.
The Climate Crisis: Urgent Concern, Limited Action
Maria Damanaki emphasized the stark reality of climate change’s impact, noting a rising concern among Greeks. A recent METRON ANALYSIS poll revealed that 84% of the general population and 93% of women in Greece are worried about climate change—placing the country second in the Mediterranean after Portugal in levels of concern. Despite this awareness, apathy and a lack of action persist.
Maria acknowledged the challenges: “International research shows that the main reason for this apathy is the belief that we cannot change the course of things. The sentiment ‘we’ll either burn or drown’ dominates public perception.”
Shifting the Narrative: From Disaster to Opportunity
One of Maria’s key messages was the need to reframe the climate crisis. While often portrayed as a looming disaster, she stressed that it must also be seen as an opportunity. Highlighting data that suggests climate action could bring over $26 trillion in economic benefits and create more than 65 million jobs by 2030, she called for a solutions-focused approach.
“We experts are partly to blame,” she stated. “We focus too much on presenting the crisis as a disaster and fail to highlight solutions and opportunities.”
Greece’s Role: Responsibility and Potential
Maria pointed out Greece’s unique position in addressing the climate crisis. Tourism and shipping, which together contribute over 40% of Greece’s GDP, offer significant potential for transformation. With European funding available, these industries could become models of sustainable development.
However, she also noted systemic issues, including the lack of prioritization by political parties and the absence of robust social counterweights like trade unions and NGOs, which play a larger role in other countries. Strengthening these institutions and mobilizing public and private resources are critical steps toward meaningful progress.
A Call to Action
Maria’s presentation served as both a wake-up call and a source of optimism. While the challenges of the climate crisis are immense, the opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development are equally significant. By shifting the narrative and taking decisive action, Greece has the potential to lead in addressing one of the most urgent global issues of our time.
Learn more News Stories about how Leading Women for the Ocean supports solutions-focused approaches to climate action and ocean governance.
