Feature: “Greek-American Climate Initiative”

The images from last year's fires, which irreparably affected Evia and the Peloponnese, were seen around the world, causing a sensation. "This photo of the elderly woman, who was standing in front of the fire, her house devastated, it haunted me," 24-year- old George Behrakis tells Kathimerini from Boston. "In her face I saw my own grandparents but also so many of the elderly people I meet in the summers when I come to Greece." The young Greek-American, named after his grandfather, a prominent member of the Greek diaspora in the US, has completed studies at Tufts University and has worked with young Republican Party leaders as a climate change advocate.

Mobilization

"This unprecedented disaster made me realize that Greece is in much more danger than other countries," he emphasizes, who together with fellow Greek-American George Gemelas decided to join forces in order to mobilize the Greek diaspora in the US around the issue of climate change for their country of origin. "Greece, being a Mediterranean country, is extremely vulnerable," he clarifies, "the effects of climate change, such as rising temperatures, drought, and forest fires, may have devastating effects on tourism and the agricultural sector."

The two young Greek-Americans, who maintain close ties with Greece, believe that the diaspora has not realized the scope of the problem. "They [Greek-Americans] are well- informed about Greek foreign policy issues as it relates to Turkey and Cyprus, as well as the progress of the Greek economy, but not really about climate change, which is already a serious problem," notes Mr. Behrakis.

And he adds: "It is something that should concern them; many own homes and have investments and business ventures in Greece. Further, most still visit the country regularly, and have members of their families who still live in Greece."

With these concerns, the two young men, outside of their professional work, started the "AXIOS Campaign" in May. "We chose this name to illustrate the great importance of this issue, and to convey what we believe is the worthiness of Greeks to tackle this challenge " explains Mr. Behrakis.

"Initially we are aiming to educate and inform. We want Greek- Americans to hear from scientists and experts from Greece who have direct knowledge and experience with climate issues. We want to inform our community here in America about how climate change will impact Greece, and why addressing it is so critical." The 24-year-old expat believes that this exchange of knowledge can bring much-needed light to climate change in America.

Harnessing Influence

Another goal "is to leverage the influence we [Greeks] have as a community in America." Mr. Behrakis recalled that Americans of Greek origin are estimated to be 2 to 3 million people, with six members of the US Congress being Greek- American. "There is a tremendous opportunity to shape climate policy in America. At the same time, we want to encourage members of the diaspora to invest in green energy in Greece, and to help financially support projects and initiatives that are aimed at combating climate change."

One businessman, George Sakellaris, has already made a series of green investments in Greece – many believe that others may follow in the near future, given the energy crisis. "We want to be a bridge between the two countries for beneficial collaborations that will limit as much as possible the effects of climate change," concludes Mr. Behrakis.