Scenario workshop in Thessaloniki
We recently hosted a workshop in the Greek city of Thessaloniki, to find out how the waterfront improves people’s lives.
This workshop was part of the BlueHealth international research investigation to identify changes that could impact health and wellbeing in coastal cities across Europe.
The workshop, organised in partnership with the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, invited local stakeholders from public health, local government, urban planning and the Thessaloniki Water Service. Together the group identified six major factors that will impact health, wellbeing and blue space in the city.
Experts discuss the future of blue space in Thessaloniki, Greece.
Factors likely to impact BlueHealth in Thessaloniki
- Climate change
- Migration
- Technology towards more healthy urban living
- More recreational use of blue spaces
- More healthy urban living in EU policies and strategies
- Changes in labour conditions
Click to view a larger version of the workshop illustration which summarises the discussions.
Changes needed for a sustainable future
The workshop uncovered concerns about the future of blue space in Thessaloniki, including that sustainable urban design is needed to preserve the open access and welcoming character of the city’s waterfront. These public coastal spaces encourage healthy lifestyle activities and community integration with the city’s rising number of refugees and immigrants.
The workshop attendees also highlighted changes needed to improve the working conditions of local residents so that more people can benefit from a healthy work-life balance.
These findings can help us advise decision-makers on how to maximise opportunities in the city and make preparations that will protect the environment, health and wellbeing in the future. Read the full workshop summary here.
A photo of Thessaloniki’s Waterfront.
Research across Europe’s cities
BlueHealth’s series of international workshops have highlighted the value of involving local residents, academics and industry experts in discussions to improve and protect urban health and blue environments. Scroll down further to read about our previous workshops below.
