SOCIETY

The devastating wildfires of recent years dramatically highlighted the urgent need to protect local communities, natural ecosystems, and critical infrastructure across the country. Following the major wildfires of 2023, Nova launched a strategic investment of 1 million euros, developing an integrated model of restoration, prevention, and digital protection against the climate crisis, creating a benchmark initiative for Greece. The initiative was designed not only to support the environmental restoration of affected areas, but also to strengthen the safety, resilience, and everyday protection of local communities increasingly exposed to natural disasters.

Pillar A: The Institutional Role of the Restoration and Reforestation Contractor

The innovation of the initiative begins with its implementation model. Nova operated as a “Restoration and Reforestation Contractor” in cooperation with the Ministry of Environment and Energy. This means that the company did not merely provide financial resources, but also assumed responsibility for the design and implementation of critical technical works immediately after the disaster. Through this model, Nova went beyond financial support and actively participated in the planning and immediate implementation of restoration projects in areas of high environmental and social vulnerability.

• Dadia, Evros: In the Dadia National Forest Park, an ecosystem of global importance, Nova funded and implemented projects that acted as a protective barrier for soil retention. This intervention was particularly important for the local communities of Soufli and the wider Evros region, as it contributed to soil protection, the natural regeneration of the forest, and the preservation of an ecosystem directly linked to the social and economic life of the area. At the same time, the works helped reduce the risk of secondary phenomena such as floods and erosion, which directly affect residents’ safety and everyday life.
• Rhodes: The destruction in Rhodes in 2023 affected 15% of the island’s forest areas. Nova responded by constructing an extensive network of log barriers (68 km) and 35 logs, reducing the risk of flooding and landslides for residents, settlements, and local infrastructure. The intervention was critical for protecting local communities and infrastructure, while also contributing to the preservation of the region’s economic and social stability, which is closely linked to tourism.
• Holy Monastery of Penteli: In Attica, Nova focused on restoring an area of significant historical, religious, and environmental value. The reforestation of 70 hectares and the planting of 5,400 trees aimed not only at the environmental restoration of the area, but also at reconnecting the residents of Attica with a historic site of natural, cultural, and spiritual importance. The initiative also strengthened environmental awareness and citizen participation in the protection of the natural environment.

Pillar B: Digital Protection – The Smart Forest Initiative

In cooperation with the Ministry of Environment and the General Directorate of Forests and Forest Land, Nova donated and implemented the "Smart Forest" program to Rhodes. This initiative tangibly demonstrates how digital infrastructure and next-generation technologies serve as a critical tool for prevention and civil protection against natural disasters brought about by the climate crisis.

Why Rhodes: The island is an international brand name and a flagship of our tourism, which was, however, severely affected by wildfires, leaving its biodiversity vulnerable. The iconic "Petaloudes" (Valley of the Butterflies) area was selected for the program's implementation due to its high environmental and aesthetic symbolism.

Technological Excellence & Impact: The program is an integrated prevention and early warning system that operates via a central management platform and combines:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) & GIS Data
• Smoke sensors & High-definition cameras
• Continuous surveillance drones connected to a central management platform.

The ability to detect fire outbreaks early allows for the rapid mobilization of competent authorities, limiting the risk of spreading. In this way, "Smart Forest" effectively protects human lives, settlements, critical infrastructure, as well as wildlife. At the same time, it safeguards the Natura 2000 protected area "Valley of the Butterflies," which constitutes a vital pillar for the economy and sustainability of the island's local community.

The initiative forms part of a broader approach aimed at shifting from a reactive model of environmental restoration following disasters to a modern framework focused on prevention and Civil Protection through the use of advanced technologies. In this way, Nova actively contributes to building more resilient local communities while protecting human lives, animals, and valuable natural ecosystems.