In 10 schools in the prefectures of Chania and Lasithi in Crete and with the participation of 460 secondary education students, the educational program “Green Stem – Creating Sustainable Ecosystems” was recently completed. This initiative, implemented by SciCo in collaboration with PPC (Public Power Corporation), aimed to raise awareness and activate the student community on environmental sustainability issues.
Greek power company teaches Crete students sustainability through aquaponics
The central component of the program is the creation of aquaponics systems, an integrated closed ecosystem where fish and plants live in a symbiotic relationship: plants filter fish waste while simultaneously absorbing their nutrients. This innovative model offers significant environmental benefits, reducing water consumption by up to 90% compared to traditional farming methods.
After completion of the training, the systems remain in schools as educational tools, while their maintenance is assigned to the school communities themselves, creating a living hub of environmental awareness and practical knowledge.
PPC: Social innovation in practice
Utilizing STEM methodology (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) as well as experiential learning (Project-Based Learning), the “Green Stem – Creating Sustainable Ecosystems” program enabled students to delve deeper into critical topics such as:
- climate change and environmental protection
- sustainability in the primary sector
- conservation of natural resources
- leveraging innovation to solve environmental challenges
The initiative is part of PPC’s Action Plan for Creating Shared Socioeconomic Value (CSV), specifically in the axis of educational
actions emphasizing sustainability and local communities where the company operates.
PPC remains committed to its strategy for a just energy transition, prioritizing actions that enhance sustainability, support local communities and contribute to the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through targeted initiatives and partnerships with organizations that incorporate social innovation and sustainability, PPC promotes a new development model that connects energy with society and the environment.
