As night descends, I’m writing from Hotel Oikoperiigitis in Kerkini Village, nestled near the serene Lake Kerkini.
This morning, a diverse group of 15 individuals, ranging in age from 4 to 82, congregated in the triangle area of the lake to embark on a mission to clean the lake’s shores.
Despite the steady light rain and challenging weather conditions in the area, we were granted a reprieve post-12:00 when the rainfall finally stopped. Our resolve remained unshaken, fueled by our commitment to join the ranks of those who actively contribute to nature conservation rather than merely discussing or lamenting environmental issues online.
The support from the Union of Professional Photographers and Videographers of Central Macedonia, the Union of Professionals of Lake Kerkini, and the Sintiki Municipality significantly strengthened our efforts.
The Union of Professional Photographers and Videographers of Central Macedonia supplied all the essential gear, including gloves, trash bags and snacks, while the Sintiki Municipality arranged for a truck to collect the amassed waste.
Together, we succeeded in collecting close to 100 trash bags, each with a capacity of 100 to 125 liters, brimming with an assortment of litter such as plastic bottles, shoes, plastic bags, and various other types of refuse you might envision.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the President of the Union of Professional Photographers and Videographers of Central Macedonia and fellow photographer, Iraklis Soliopoulos, for his unwavering support and significant contribution to this endeavor. I also want to acknowledge my fellow photographers, Yanni Zaharaki and Vasili Zagourtzini, members of the Union, along with Giannis Reklos and Ilias from Hotel Oikoperiigitis, and my family and other individuals, for their presence and efforts in the field.
The vice mayor of Sintiki Municipality, who was on-site, shared with us that inspired by our initiative, the municipality is will consider organizing an annual lake cleaning event. I sincerely hope it comes to fruition.
The inaugural #cleanuplakerkini event has concluded, and the sense of fulfillment from contributing to the conservation of this magnificent location is immense.
A huge thank you to everyone who participated, to those who sent positive thoughts, and to everyone who helped spread the word about this initiative.
Keep an eye out for the next #cleanuplakekerkini event! To join the exclusive group I’m assembling for cleanup events in Lake Kerkini, please complete the form provided here.
