The Mayor of Chalki, Mr. Evangelos Fragkakis, participated in the proceedings of the 8th meeting of the Commission for the Environment, Climate Change and Energy (ENVE) of the European Committee of the Regions, held in Brussels.
During the meeting, critical issues concerning the future of the European Union in the areas of climate policy, energy transition, and environmental sustainability were discussed, with an emphasis on shaping a more inclusive framework for global climate negotiations, as well as on integrating environmental and energy priorities into the EU’s new multiannual financial framework.
Of particular importance was the discussion on simplifying the administrative burden associated with environmental legislation, as well as the exchange of views on strengthening the green transition at the local and regional levels.
In his remarks, the Mayor of Chalki highlighted the challenges posed by being a small island, emphasizing the need for specific policies that take into account the unique characteristics of Europe’s very small islands. He emphasized that islands such as Chalki can serve as “living laboratories” for green and digital transition, citing the island as an example—it is Greece’s first GR-eco Island.
At the same time, he referred to the need to strengthen energy communities, energy and water self-sufficiency, and the use of innovative technologies, in order to reduce the cost of living and ensure the right of residents to remain on the small islands.
Mr. Fragkakis stated:
“The voice of the small islands must be heard loud and clear in Europe. The green transition cannot be a one-size-fits-all approach—it requires targeted policies that provide real solutions to local communities and strengthen their sustainability”.
The Municipality of Chalki, representing Greece’s small islands, continues to actively participate in European decision-making processes, promoting policies that strengthen sustainable development, social cohesion, and innovation on small islands.