Most Greeks consider adaptation to climate change a national priority. According to the annual climate survey conducted by the European Investment Bank (EIB) and published on Monday, almost nine out of 10 Greeks recognise the need to change and adapt their lifestyle to the effects of climate change. Respondents ranked climate change second among the challenges facing their country, behind the cost of living. Many believe that investing in climate change adaptation now will prevent higher costs in the future.
Key results
- 98% of Greek respondents state that it is important for their country to adapt to climate change. Of these, 60% state that priority should be given to this adaptation.
- 90% agree that climate change adaptation investments should be made now to avoid even higher costs in the future.
According to a report by the European Environment Agency, Europe is currently the fastest warming continent in the world and extreme weather events are expected to increase as global temperatures rise. This escalation poses significant infrastructure challenges and threatens the stability of global water and food supplies, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive adaptation strategies.
"At the European Investment Bank, we recognise that adaptation to climate change is not just a necessity for the future, but also an immediate priority for Greece. Adapting to climate change is not only a moral responsibility, but also an economic opportunity. By investing today, we have the potential to protect lives, support sustainable development and minimise the long-term costs of inaction. The EIB is committed to working with Greece, providing financing and advisory services to ensure effective and resilient climate change adaptation strategies that leave no one behind," EIB Vice-President Ioannis Tsakiris underlined.
The EIB published its seventh annual climate survey, capturing the views of more than 24,000 respondents across the EU and the US on climate change. The survey, conducted in August 2024, was taken by 1,000 people from Greece.