Athens, June 5 – The City of Athens announced the planting of a grove containing 50 young lemon trees in the central district of Koukaki, commemorating Friday’s United Nations-designated World Environment Day. The new green space is located on a 2,500-square-meter plot at 128-130 Kallirois Avenue, southwest of the Hill of Philopappos.
Environmental Upgrade and Biodiversity Boost
This initiative is intended to “environmentally upgrade the area and boost biodiversity,” according to a municipal statement. The planting of the lemon grove aligns with the city’s broader efforts to enhance its urban green infrastructure.
City’s Commitment to Green Spaces
Giorgos Apostolopoulos, the city’s deputy mayor for the environment and greenery, stated that municipal authorities have planted over 12,000 new trees in Athens during the past two and a half years. He further pledged that an additional 50 trees would soon be planted at Evelpidon Park, an open space behind the city’s main courts complex that has previously been neglected.
Pilot Project with Bitter Orange Trees
In a related development, the municipal announcement also revealed plans for a pilot project on Momferatou Street in the adjacent Gyzi district. This project will involve grafting lemon stock onto 15 of the city’s distinctive bitter orange trees, further diversifying the urban flora and exploring innovative greening techniques.
Broader Context of Environmental Initiatives in Athens
The planting of the lemon grove is part of a series of environmental and urban development projects undertaken by the City of Athens. Recent news from the capital has included warnings to residents in Western Athens regarding a grey wolf sighting, the completion of works on Central Vassilissis Olgas Avenue, and extensions to the Athens Metro Line 2 works, which have necessitated early closures of some stations.
These efforts underscore the city’s ongoing commitment to improving its environment and urban landscape, addressing both ecological concerns and the quality of life for its residents.
Source: https://www.ekathimerini.com/news/1305838/lemon-grove-planted-in-central-athens/
