The Greek government is ready to announce a new program focusing on the development of greenhouse cultivation as a strategic response to both climate change impact and to enhance its imports, with a budget of 600 million euros, by the end of this year.
The greenhouse sector is already one of the most dynamic areas within the primary sector and presents a viable solution to the pressing issues caused by the climate crisis.
Currently, Greece has 48,720 hectares of greenhouse space out of a total of 28.2 million hectares of cultivated land, with 8,319 greenhouse operations. Compared to the Netherlands, a similar sized county which has 120,000 hectares of greenhouse space, this is very low.
The benefits of greenhouse cultivation are clearly evident in tomato production. Outdoor tomato yields reach approximately 3 tons per hectare, while greenhouse tomatoes can produce up to 13.5 tons per hectare.
The aim of the greenhouse development program is to reduce costs by improving efficiency. According to the plan from the Ministry of Rural Development and Food, energy use in greenhouses is expected to drop by 30%, and water consumption for irrigation will see significant reductions as well.
The program’s funding will be structured as follows: 50% will come from the Rural Development Program (RDP), 35% will be covered through bank loans, and the remaining 15% will be provided by private capital.
It should be noted that areas affected by natural disasters and those in the Northern Aegean will receive an additional 10% in funding support.
Eligible beneficiaries will include both individuals and legal entities, as well as collective agricultural organizations such as producer groups, producer organizations, agricultural cooperatives, and their unions.
On the other hand, entities already receiving funding from other sectoral programs will be excluded from this program.
Source: tovima.com
Latest News
Foreign-Owned Businesses in Greece Thrive in Trade and Services
Despite government efforts to attract foreign investment, only 0.6% of all businesses across Greece are foreign-owned.
41st Athens Marathon- Traffic Regulations in Athens from Thursday to Sunday
Traffic regulations will be implemented gradually, starting from Thursday, as part of the 41st Athens Marathon.
Greek Households Most Pessimistic in Europe: IOBE Report
Over six in ten (65%) of households said that their financial situation worsened over the past year
JP Morgan Remains ‘Bullish’ on Greek Banks
JP Morgan reiterated its analysis of DTCs, prompted by Piraeus Bank’s plan to accelerate their amortization
Source of Wealth Declarations for Greek Public Officials Made Easier
Source of wealth declarations are designed to improve transparency and prevent corruption among Greece's public officials. Yet 98% of Greeks still believe corruption is widespread in the country, according to Eurobarometer.
Greece’s Labor Market Slack Among Highest in EU
Greece ranks 4th in EU for labor market slack, mostly due to high unemployment levels, and has widest gender gap in the EU.
Livestock Crisis Threatens Greek Feta
Feta in particular, is Greece’s primary dairy export, with 65% of production going abroad.
Moldova’s Sandu Wins Second Term amid Meddling Claims
According to the Central Election Commission, with 98% of votes counted, Maia Sandu led with 54.35% to Alexandr Stoianoglo’s 45.65%
Attica Wins ‘Best Greek Hospitality Region’ at 2024 Awards
The Greek Hospitality Awards, now in their tenth year, are one of the premier tourism industry events at the European level
Greece Takes Command of EU’s Operation ASPIDES in Red Sea
The defense minister also visited the Greek frigate Spetsai, which is participating in Operation ASPIDES, while in the port of Djibouti