Impact Hub Athens proudly announces its participation in the ambitious PHAROS project, a comprehensive EU-funded MISSION initiative aimed at safeguarding marine ecosystems and boosting the sustainable blue economy. The program unites 24 partners from across Europe and beyond and is built around three core pillars: Nature-Based Solutions (NBS), Digital Twin Oceans (DTO), and Smart Enhanced Reefs. Together, the partners will implement groundbreaking solutions in four primary demonstration sites, in Gran Canaria (X2) (Spain), Ireland, and Iceland, focusing on replicating these models across the Atlantic and Arctic basins. With a mission to address key EU Mission 2030 goals, PHAROS aims to enhance biodiversity, reduce pollution, and foster a sustainable blue economy through innovative initiatives and inclusive community engagement strategies. Through its diverse activities, the project will contribute significantly to marine conservation and a transformative shift towards sustainability.
Building on Experience: The REMEDIES Project Contribution
The expertise and methodologies gained from the REMEDIES-for-Ocean project, in which Impact Hub Athens has been an active contributor, will significantly enhance the PHAROS initiative. In the REMEDIES project, we have focused on reducing plastic pollution in the Mediterranean Sea through innovative waste management, sustainable consumption, and community-driven solutions. This experience has empowered citizens to take action, develop entrepreneurial ventures, and engage in environmental protection.
The REMEDIES project’s Citizen Litter Entrepreneur Program serves as a foundational model, expanded through PHAROS with a focus on driving greater impact. Key contributions include:
- 12 Innovations that have been tested and validated for entrepreneurial plastic valorization.
- Establishment of a Network of Experts to support community-based solutions.
- Organization of the Hackathon – Plastic Fantastic to crowdsource innovative solutions to marine litter.
- Development of an Entrepreneurial Curriculum designed to cultivate skills for sustainability-focused ventures.
- Delivery of Trainings and Workshops aimed at equipping citizens and aspiring entrepreneurs with the necessary tools to tackle plastic pollution.
This knowledge transfer will ensure that Impact Hub Athens not only contributes to the goals of the PHAROS project but also scales the impact of its established initiatives, driving a holistic and community-centered approach for the protection and regeneration of our Oceans.
Impact and Future Outlook
With its comprehensive approach and strong partnership network, PHAROS is set to make a substantial contribution to achieving the EU Mission 2030 targets. Through initiatives like the Citizens Entrepreneurs Program, Impact Hub Athens will continue to lead the way in fostering citizen-led innovation and promoting sustainable economic development. As the project progresses, it promises to deliver lasting change for the environment, economy, and local communities, proving that inclusive and collaborative solutions are the key to protecting our shared marine heritage.
Stay tuned for more updates as Impact Hub Athens and the PHAROS consortium work together to pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future for our oceans.
For more information, visit PHAROS Project.
