Sustainable Development Policies

15.2.1

Events on Sustainable Use of Land

1. Purpose

The purpose of this Policy is to define the University of Thessaly’s framework for organizing and supporting events, conferences, workshops, and outreach activities that promote the conservation and sustainable use of land resources, including forest areas, agricultural lands, and natural habitats. These events contribute to raising awareness, sharing knowledge, and promoting collaboration for the protection and responsible use of terrestrial ecosystems.

2. Scope

This Policy applies to all academic and administrative units organizing educational or cultural events; conferences, seminars, and workshops focused on land management, forestry, and sustainable agriculture; outreach and awareness initiatives for local and regional communities; collaborations with municipalities, NGOs, and governmental organizations; and activities hosted within or supported by the University that relate to land conservation and sustainable use.

3. Legal and Institutional Context

This Policy aligns with: Law 998/1979 (Forest Protection); Law 3937/2011 (Biodiversity Conservation); Law 4447/2016 (Sustainable Spatial Planning); Law 4819/2021 (Circular Economy and Environmental Protection); EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030; EU Forestry Strategy 2021; and UN Sustainable Development Goals 13 and 15.

4. Policy Statement

1. The University is committed to promoting sustainable management and conservation of land resources through events that disseminate knowledge and best practices.
   2. The University shall:
   – Organize academic conferences, exhibitions, and workshops focused on sustainable land use, forestry, agriculture, and biodiversity.
   – Support student-led and community events on soil conservation, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable livelihoods.
   – Collaborate with public and private partners to promote responsible land stewardship.
   – Encourage interdisciplinary approaches that link ecology, agriculture, architecture, and policy studies.
   – Ensure that all University events observe environmental sustainability principles.
   3. Events will highlight the scientific and cultural importance of preserving land ecosystems, integrating local and traditional perspectives.

5. Implementation and Responsibilities

–  The Rector oversees implementation.
– The Departments of the School of Agriculture Sciences, Environmental Forestry, Wood Sciences and Design, Computer Science and Biomedical Informatics, Environmental Engineering,  Architecture Engineering and Spatial Planning, Urban Planning and Regional Development, and Veterinary Medicine are responsible for academic programming.
– The Public Relations Office  ensures promotion and visibility.
– The Sustainability Committee evaluates the impact of events and proposes improvements.

6. Monitoring and Review

The Policy will be reviewed every three (3) years. Indicators include the number and type of events held, participation rates, partnerships with external stakeholders, and outcomes related to sustainable land management.

7. Related Documents / References

Law 998/1979; Law 3937/2011; Law 4447/2016; Law 4819/2021; EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030; EU Forestry Strategy 2021; UN SDGs 13 and 15.