The information event for the CASTOR project was successfully held on Friday, 12 December 2025, in Sparta. The project constitutes an action of holistic water management, implemented in cooperation with local authorities and other relevant stakeholders.

The conservation of biodiversity is a cornerstone for a resilient and functional environment that supports local development and the quality of life of residents. It constitutes a climate change mitigation action, contributes to flood protection, and promotes the proper and sustainable use of water.

During the event, a number of important statements were delivered, most notably by:

• the Vice Regional Governor of Laconia Regional Unit, Mr Theodoros Veroutis, who underlined the importance of the CASTOR project and its direct connection with the Mount Parnon – Cape Maleas Biosphere Reserve. At the same time, he informed participants about the Evrotas River enhancement project, which is expected to be implemented imminently by the Region of Peloponnese, emphasising the strategic importance of the river for the natural and cultural heritage of Laconia,
• the Deputy Mayor for Green Spaces of the Municipality of Sparta, Mr Efstratios Kokkoros, who referred to the importance attributed by the Municipal Authority to actions aimed at environmental protection. He also stressed that the Municipality of Sparta supports initiatives such as the CASTOR project, highlighting the need for the active participation of the local community in environmental protection, and
• the representative of the Biosphere Reserve and Chief Executive Officer of the Parnonas Development Organisation S.A., Mr Marinis Beretsos, who highlighted the clear synergies between the CASTOR project and the Biosphere Reserve Management Plan currently under development, underlining the complementarity of objectives and planned actions.

The presentation of the project was delivered by E. Pappas, A. Boglis, E. Kalogianni and L. Vardakas, who analysed the scientific background of the project, the actions being implemented or planned, as well as the importance of cooperation with local authorities and users of the area.

Following the completion of the presentations, a discussion was held with the participants. Strong interest in the project’s actions was recorded, and the intention to support the CASTOR project was expressed by those present.

Participants in the event included representatives of the Municipality of Sparta, the competent services of the Region of Peloponnese, the relevant Protected Areas Management Unit of NECCA, environmental NGOs and the Network of Attica Islands, confirming the multi-level and collaborative nature of the project.