The three-day kickoff meeting for the Horizon Program “Path4Med” was performed in Agricultural University of Athens
The three-day kickoff meeting for the Horizon Program Path4Med: Path4Med - – Demonstrating innovative pathways addressing water and soil pollution in the Mediterranean Agro-Hydro-System took place on September 19- September 21, hosted by the Agricultural University of Athens. The program, which has a four-year duration (2024-2028), involves 26 partners from 16 countries and is coordinated by the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Research Unit of– Laboratory of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, led by the Assistant Professor Mr. Konstantinos Soulis.
Day 1: Welcome and Project Overview
During the opening ceremony, a welcome address was given by the Vice-Rector of the Agricultural University of Athens for European University, Internationalization, and Student Welfare, Professor Ms. Eleni Miliou. The GIS Research Unit of the Agricultural University of Athens was presented by Professor Mr. Dionissios Kalivas. The general presentation of the program was delivered by Mr. Konstantinos Soulis, the project Coordinator, who outlined its activities and emphasized its importance.
The overall goal of Path4Med is to pave clear pathways towards zero water and soil pollution in the agro-hydro-system of the Mediterranean Sea basin through an innovative triple bottom line approach achieving economic, social, and environmental sustainability to ensure human well-being and ecosystems functioning.
Presentations from consortium members provided an overview of the project’s scope, expected outcomes, and the strategic roadmap for the upcoming months. Participants engaged in productive discussions regarding the technical work packages, timelines, and shared responsibilities. The day concluded with a networking session, offering opportunities to build connections and strengthen the collaborative spirit among attendees.
Day 2: Detailed Work Packages presentations and Demonstration Sites
The second day focused on more in-depth sessions, where participants presented and discussed specific thematic areas related to the program's objectives based on the work packages of the program. These breakout sessions allowed for a closer examination of the challenges and opportunities within the project, fostering dynamic exchanges of ideas and perspectives.
All partners reaffirmed their commitment to innovation and sustainability, key elements of the Horizon Program.
Day 3: Field Trip to Spercheios River
On the third day, the group embarked on an insightful field trip to Spercheios River where the Greek demonstration site will take place. This trip provided a practical perspective on the project’s aims. Participants visited key agricultural sites and areas of environmental interest. The field trip concluded with discussions on best practices and lessons learned, further reinforcing the collaborative nature of the program.
Overall, the kickoff meeting set a strong foundation for the [Path4Med] Horizon Program’s success, inspiring participants to move forward with a shared vision and clear goals for the future.
