Active participation of citizens
The National Technical University of Athens has been organizing the Researcher’s Evening for all Universities and Research Centers since 2013 on the last Friday of September each year. It opens its gates at the emblematic Averoff building of the Patission Historical Complex and welcomes the public, with an emphasis on students and teachers, in a festive mood.
Since 2016, the GreenTech Challenge – the largest national green innovation competition – has been organized under the auspices of the NTUA, with the aim of highlighting and supporting innovative ideas and business solutions in the fields of the environment, the circular economy and sustainable development. Through the GreenTech Challenge, students, researchers and startups are invited to submit proposals for contemporary environmental challenges and compete for prizes, mentorship and access to collaborations with program partners. These activities provide young engineers with real challenges, encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and connect the academic community with innovation and entrepreneurship, contributing to the formation of a new generation of graduates capable of promoting sustainable development in practice.
At the same time, NTUA collaborates with public bodies, local governments, and non-governmental organizations to jointly address challenges related to the Sustainable Development Goals. For example, it actively participates in the Hellenic Solid Waste Management Association (EEDSA) – where WWF also collaborates – contributing with its expertise to the national effort for rational waste management (related to SDG11 and SDG12).
The National Technical University of Athens promotes energy saving and resource management practices with the aim of encouraging students and employees to develop sustainably. The practices include avoiding lighting fixtures in idle mode, emphasizing the importance of turning off lights when not in use, as well as avoiding the operation of appliances that are not required, in order to reduce the consumption of excess electricity. In addition, it encourages the use of natural lighting where possible, with the aim of exploiting the natural available brightness to save energy. NTUA also promotes the repair instead of replacement of older appliances, thus supporting the recycling of resources and the reduction of waste. Through these practices, NTUA demonstrates its commitment to promoting a more sustainable and responsible management of natural resources.
At the same time, general energy saving practices have been developed for employees and students which will constitute
Integrating energy conservation principles into the daily lives of employees and students is crucial for improving energy efficiency and promoting environmental awareness. This action helps reduce energy costs and combat carbon emissions, while providing a stimulus for the implementation of innovative solutions and technologies. Compliance with environmental legislation regulations also becomes easier, while at the same time enhancing the quality of life in the educational environment and beyond.
