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This text formulates a set of coherent and realistic proposals for the after delignification period in Western Macedonia. The aim of these proposals is to avoid the economic decline and poverty of the Region. The first part, based on the literature and the best available practices, the proposals for the necessary environmental restoration of mine lands. Concerning the economic rehabilitation of the Region, a mix of actions referring to the whole production chain: from the primary to the tertiary sector of the economy, is proposed. The action that is expected to enhance the production potential of this region is the creation of branded products, under a single brand name, which will voluntarily bring together, in the context of synergies, the agri-food and manufacturing activities. Overall, it is estimated that the deadline set for de-lignification in 2023, is too early to start all those activities that will allow the economic transition of the Region, and to exclude the possibility of a massive wave of migration. For this reason, the extension of de-lignification, for a period of time within the European objectives to achieve the target of climate neutrality in 2050, are proposed.

The Greek National Energy and Climate Plan was validated by the Greek Governmental Committee of Economic Policy on 23 December 2019. The decisions included in this plan will have a significant impact on the Greek energy mix as the production of electricity from lignite combustion ceases in 2028, when lignite will be replaced by natural gas (NG) and renewable energy sources (RES). This work presents an assessment of the Greek National Energy and Climate Plan by analyzing its pros and cons. The main critiques made are focused on the absence of risk analysis and alternative scenarios, the proposed energy mix, the absence of other alternatives on the energy mix and energy storage, the low attention given to energy savings (transport, buildings), the future energy prices, and the economic and social impacts. This analysis shows that delaying this transition for some years, to better prepare it by taking into consideration the most sustainable paths for that transition, such as using more alternatives, is the best available option today.

Plastics have become an integral part of daily human life for the last 50 years because, due to their durability, low cost and ease of construction, they have replaced many other materials. However, the same characteristics that make plastics particularly desirable are also what make them ubiquitous in the environment, especially as much of the plastic is designed to be discarded almost immediately after use. This study investigates the opinion and behavior concerning the current use of plastics, their end-of-life (recycling) scenario, and the potential for their replacement with more sustainable and biodegradable materials in Greece and Lebanon. The survey was conducted during April and May 2021 in the main cities of the two countries. The data were collected using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaires were analyzed, using simple descriptive statistics, chi-square test and PCA analysis. The results show that even if the respondents of both countries stated significant awareness of environmental issues, they often use single-use plastics. Furthermore, the respondents (in both Greece and Lebanon) say that it would be fair to pay more for products in a package made of biodegradable materials. Finally, the statistical analysis of the results shows that in both Greece and Lebanon, there is a small increase in the use of reusable products during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to before the pandemic.

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