The National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and the Hellenic Survey of Geology and Mineral Exploration signed a Memorandum of Understanding, intending to promote scientific research, technology development, and education in the fields of geology, mineral resources, and environmental management. The Memorandum was signed by the Rector of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Professor Gerasimos Siasos, the Director General of the Hellenic Survey of Geology and Mineral Exploration, Dr Dionysios Gkoutis, and the Chair of the Department of Geology and Geoenvironment at the University of Athens, Professor Assimina Antonarakou.
The agreement lays the groundwork, among other things, for closer cooperation on research and the exploitation of geological formations relating to geology of ore deposits, industrial minerals and rocks, energy raw materials, the storage of carbon dioxide and hydrogen, the storage of energy, ending dependence on lignite, study and protection of the environment, combatting climate change, geo-environmental assessment and monitoring, geological mapping, high-resolution stratigraphy, and the promotion of the geological and palaeontological heritage.
Accordingly, the Rector of the University of Athens, Professor Gerasimos Siasos, stated that ‘This collaboration is yet another step towards linking research with practice, thus contributing to the management and exploitation of Greece’s geological and mineral resources in a scientifically sound and environmentally responsible manner. Through it, our students and researchers will have the chance to engage in fresh and innovative programmes and thereby participate in the development of our country’.
The Memorandum of Understanding represents the start of a dynamic collaboration that will improve geological and environmental research in Greece, promote innovation and academic education in geosciences, and significantly benefit the scientific community and our society at large.
