As a child, the general director of forests at the Environment Ministry, Vangelis Gountoufas, developed a deep connection with Mount Pindos while exploring its forests. His journey led him to a career in forestry, where he now oversees forest policy in Greece. Gountoufas highlights the importance of implementing forest policies, a task previously neglected by the state.
Reflecting on decades of forest mismanagement, Gountoufas emphasizes the need for prevention and collaboration in addressing wildfires. He discusses recent initiatives, such as the “Anti-Nero” program, aimed at proactive forest management to prevent blazes.
Looking ahead, Gountoufas plans to restore areas devastated by wildfires through reforestation efforts. He envisions involving the community in forest management to foster a sense of stewardship and prevent future disasters.
Incentives for cooperatives
Gountoufas shares the government’s efforts to reform forest management by incentivizing private companies and forestry cooperatives to manage forest ecosystems. He notes a growing interest from young people in pursuing forestry certification to establish new cooperatives for sustainable forest management.
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