Προς ένα βιώσιμο μέλλον : αναπτύσσοντας έξυπνες και βιώσιμες κοινότητες

Κακούρης, Γεώργιος

Master Thesis

Author

Κακούρης, Γεώργιος

Date

2025-07

Abstract

This thesis focuses on the transition toward a sustainable future by examining the concept of smart and sustainable communities in Greece. Overtourism and increasing urbanization in major urban centers such as Athens, Thessaloniki, and Heraklion have created environmental and social challenges. At the same time, Greek villages face demographic decline, limited infrastructure, and economic stagnation, making sustainable development an urgent necessity. The analysis highlights the issues facing villages and explores opportunities for sustainable development through investments in renewable energy sources (RES), energy-efficient buildings (Class A+), and the integration of the circular economy. It examines how infrastructure improvements can enhance economic activity and attract new residents and tourists. The study evaluates the needs of Greek communities using the GAP Analysis method. This methodology involves comparing the current state with the vision of smart and sustainable communities, identifying gaps, and determining necessary actions for the transition. Special emphasis is placed on the importance of local governance and policy support. The thesis compares the Greek experience with international examples, such as sustainable communities in United States of America, Germany, and other regions that have successfully integrated RES, the circular economy, and sustainable agriculture. From this comparative analysis, proposals emerge that can be applied to the Greek context, including infrastructure to attract work nomads, sustainable tourism, and support for local production. Finally, the thesis develops an action plan for the sustainable development of villages, encompassing the enhancement of regional attractiveness, support for local production, and improvement of quality of life. The study concludes with recommendations for creating smart and sustainable communities that can serve as development models in Greece and other Mediterranean countries.

Postgraduate Studies Programme

Βιοοικονομία, Κυκλική Οικονομία και Βιώσιμη Ανάπτυξη

Department

Σχολή Οικονομικών, Επιχειρηματικών και Διεθνών Σπουδών. Τμήμα Οικονομικής Επιστήμης

Number of pages

Language

Greek

URI

https://dione.lib.unipi.gr/xmlui/handle/unipi/18066

Collections

Τμήμα Οικονομικής Επιστήμης

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Except where otherwise noted, this item's license is described as
Αναφορά Δημιουργού-Μη Εμπορική Χρήση-Όχι Παράγωγα Έργα 3.0 Ελλάδα