CLYMACT in Athens: shared strategies against energy poverty
From 24 to 26 November 2025, Athens hosted the third transnational event of the European project CLYMACT, focused on energy poverty. After the Italian meeting, which addressed food poverty, delegations from partner countries met to exchange tools and good practices aimed at reducing the environmental and social impact of energy (and its lack), sharing experiences, strategies, and expertise.
The event opened at the Agii Anargiri Kamatero Park for Recycling and Environmental Education, with a welcome speech by Mayor Stavros Tsirbas. On this occasion, pre-twinning agreements were signed between Unione Reno Galliera (Italy) and AAK (Athens), and between AAK (Athens) and Mislata (Spain), reinforcing cooperation among municipalities in addressing energy poverty and climate change challenges.
During the morning, partner organisations and youth ambassadors from Hungary (Zugló, Budapest), Italy (Unione Reno Galliera), Spain (Mislata - Valencia and GAP Espana - Bilbao), Croatia (Opcina Podstrana), and Greece (AAK, Athens) gave joint presentations on the topic. This participatory format allowed for the comparison of different contexts, local experiences, and innovative approaches, fostering dialogue and knowledge exchange. Special attention was paid to the impact of energy poverty on women, who are often among the most affected, highlighting the need for gender mainstreaming policies.
On the second day, at Harokopio University, Youth Ambassadors took centre stage in thematic workshops, working in international groups on five key areas:
– Education and awareness on energy poverty
– Technology and energy efficiency
– Multiculturalism and social inclusion
– Creativity against energy poverty
– Gen Z and energy awareness
The groups worked together to develop concrete responses to the challenges identified, preparing joint presentations. This process enabled young people to take a leading role in shaping innovative strategies, strengthening transnational cooperation and education for European citizenship.
The programme concluded with a visit to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC), designed by Renzo Piano. A symbol of sustainability, social innovation, and accessibility, the centre features integrated photovoltaic systems and hosts the National Opera, the National Library, and vast green areas—demonstrating how advanced infrastructure can combine energy efficiency, culture, and educational spaces. A tangible example for the participating local authorities and youth.
The event confirmed the importance of transnational exchange, city-to-city cooperation, and the central role of Youth Ambassadors in building inclusive and concrete solutions to energy poverty.
The next CLYMACT event will take place in Bilbao in March 2026 and will focus on waste management and climate change mitigation, continuing the path of education, collaboration, and sharing of best practices among European municipalities.
Unione Reno Galliera, lead partner of the project, participated with a delegation including the Europe Office (manager Elena Gamberini and Cesare Bonazzi), institutional representatives (Alice Vecchi, mayor of Bentivoglio; Paolo Crescimbeni, mayor of San Giorgio di Piano; Simone Garutti, municipal councillor of Castello d’Argile), and Youth Ambassadors Michele, Deanna, Valeriia, Gloria, Jenny, and Sara.
