Greece’s Climate Targets at Risk Without Cross-Sector Integration
Greece’s ambitious goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2050 is under threat due to fragmented policymaking across the energy, agriculture, and water sectors. While the National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) outlines a shift to renewables and decarbonisation, it often overlooks critical cross-sector dependencies—such as how agricultural practices affect water and energy use.
A new analysis by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) using integrated systems modelling reveals that current policies lack coordination, risking inefficiencies and missed opportunities. For example, agriculture policy doesn’t fully consider its emissions or energy and water demands, and energy plans miss key variables like land and water needs.
Delays and weak implementation of water management strategies further compound these issues. The European Commission has also highlighted the need for better coordination among Greek ministries.
Experts stress that a systemic, science-informed approach is essential. Aligning policies across sectors can help Greece build a resilient, sustainable economy that meets its climate goals.
Authors: Angelos Alamanos, Prof. Koundouri , Ioannis Arampatzidis, Stathis Devves
Editors: Vicky Markolefas & Namita Kohli
Published on: May 12, 2025
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Published by: 360info
Originally published under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 by 360info™.
This article is part of the Science-Policy Briefs series, produced through the collaboration between the Alliance of Excellence for Research and Innovation on Aeiphoria (AE4RIA), an alliance of prestigious research and innovation institutions, and 360info, a not-for-profit wire service delivering free, research-based, solutions-focused journalism by experts. The series aims to translate cutting-edge scientific research into accessible, actionable insights for policymakers and the wider public, supporting evidence-informed decision-making on key sustainable development challenges.
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