The Region of Crete was at the center of the international debate on climate neutrality, with the Deputy Regional Governor for Climate Change, Yiannis Anastasakis, actively participating in the Rethink Cities Summit. During the session, Mr. Anastasakis presented Crete’s experience in large-scale energy retrofit projects for buildings and the strategies implemented by the Region for the green transition and strengthening local resilience.
The conference focused on public-private sector cooperation and the exchange of know-how as key tools for creating cities and regions with a zero carbon footprint and a high quality of life.
Innovation and best practices from Europe
The session presented successful examples from European cities, such as:
Lappeenranta (Finland): Decarbonisation through district heating systems.
Lund (Sweden): Digitalisation of the energy system through the EnergyNet project.
Oslo (Norway): Zero-emission construction.
Helsinki (Finland): Charging infrastructure for electric trucks.
Essex (UK): “Solar Together Essex” programme for a collective transition to clean energy.
Technical visits to the Danish city of Sønderborg highlighted innovative applications, such as a hospital that harnesses surplus heat for the community and social housing that reduced energy consumption by 27% through targeted upgrades.
Crete’s participation in the Rethink Cities Summit is part of the Region’s strategy to draw on international expertise and adapt it locally, with the aim of the island’s cities leading the way towards climate neutrality, leveraging innovation, technology and strategic partnerships.
