“Kathimerini” newspaper highlights the state’s “neglect” of noise pollution in Athens, pointing out that authorities have not mapped noise levels for a decade, as European directives require.
This is based on a report from the European Court of Auditors on air and noise pollution, which states that the Greek capital has not created “noise maps” since 2014.
The report notes that air pollution is somewhat better, but “Athens continues to suffer from excessively high ozone levels,” a key component of photochemical smog, a form of atmospheric pollution.
If someone is exposed to motorcycle noise (95 decibels) for 4 hours, they risk permanent hearing damage.
However, the city has yet to develop a plan (despite EU funding) to improve air quality due to a lack of coordination between the responsible agencies and fragmented responsibilities.
In Athens, the municipal authorities are not directly responsible for managing and improving air quality; this responsibility lies with the Ministry of Environment and Energy. At the same time, other central government bodies, such as the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, are also taking measures to tackle air pollution.
Finally, regarding vehicle traffic restrictions, the report highlights that Athens continues to use the “outdated” odd-even system, and enforcement is lacking.
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