In response to severe climate challenges, Athens is breathing new life into Hadrian's Aqueduct, a historic structure, to tackle pressing water shortages while enhancing the city's environmental resilience.
Athens Revives Ancient Aqueduct to Combat Water Scarcity Amid Climate Crisis
Athens Revives Ancient Aqueduct to Combat Water Scarcity Amid Climate Crisis
Amid record heat and dwindling rainfall, Athens reinvigorates Hadrian's Aqueduct as a sustainable water source.
The city of Athens, grappling with unprecedented heat waves and reduced rainfall, has seen its water reservoirs plummet to alarming levels, ushering in a crisis for farmers facing stagnant crop yields, increased instances of wildfires, and local water needs. Against this backdrop, the city is exploring a dual approach that includes contemporary water solutions such as desalination units and a new artificial lake.
Yet, Athens is also looking at the innovative potential embedded in its past by reviving Hadrian's Aqueduct, an ancient engineering marvel that has supplied water since the Roman era. “We have an ancient monument and feat of engineering that we’re bringing into the present to save water and cool the city,” stated Katerina Dimitrou from the Athens Water Supply and Sewerage Company. Dimitrou outlined the project’s goals: not only to augment the city's water supply but also to cool urban areas through irrigation and foster a renewed culture surrounding water usage.
By incorporating irrigation techniques to green spaces, the revived aqueduct presents a unique opportunity for urban revitalization. The intention is clear—to effectively blend historical insights with modern-day needs while creating a sustainable future for Athens and its residents.
Yet, Athens is also looking at the innovative potential embedded in its past by reviving Hadrian's Aqueduct, an ancient engineering marvel that has supplied water since the Roman era. “We have an ancient monument and feat of engineering that we’re bringing into the present to save water and cool the city,” stated Katerina Dimitrou from the Athens Water Supply and Sewerage Company. Dimitrou outlined the project’s goals: not only to augment the city's water supply but also to cool urban areas through irrigation and foster a renewed culture surrounding water usage.
By incorporating irrigation techniques to green spaces, the revived aqueduct presents a unique opportunity for urban revitalization. The intention is clear—to effectively blend historical insights with modern-day needs while creating a sustainable future for Athens and its residents.
