ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

In its fifth edition, the Evia Film Project aims to help strengthen the region’s local economy in a sustainable manner, respecting both the local ecosystem and the need for growth.

Beyond our growing need toward environmental preservation and responding to the challenges of the climate crisis, as citizens of a shared planet, we are profoundly aware of the interconnected manner in which all aspects of people’s livelihoods do affect nature. Today more than ever, we have all become increasingly aware of how important it is for each and every one of us to do something to protect the environment and our fellow human beings, and reduce our impact on them.

The fifth Evia Film Project acknowledges its impact and pledges once more to be as green and sustainable as possible, by adopting a thoughtful approach as to how we go about our lives, and we hope this will inspire and inform everyone to do the same. Τhe demand is urgent and reflects a long-term responsibility the Thessaloniki International Film Festival commits to serving, both in Evia Film Project and in all of its activities.

We have always aimed to host stories that address urgent social issues of global impact, giving our audiences the space to reflect on how they lead their own lives. Since 2023, the Thessaloniki Film Festival has adopted a comprehensive environmental policy, which is being detailed and systematized into an action plan, meant to constitute an integral part of our administration, daily operations and overall organizational culture. The action plan, which is regularly revised and re-evaluated, focuses on our people, buildings & operations, materials & procurement, travel & hospitality, waste management, content, communication & collaboration.

In our latest project, the EFP, along with the local municipalities hosting the events and our vendors and partners, we invite you as our fellow participants and active citizens, to join us in our effort to pursue more sustainable ways of experiencing the festival.

Small steps make a big difference. Here are some things we can do together during the 5th EFP.

Think about your arrival to and departure from the festival. When you can opt for walking, cycling or car-pooling, which can be quicker, more practical, and beneficial for our health. It will also lower our carbon emissions.

Throughout the Festival, you will be able to refill your water cups or your bottles, at our water fountains, provided in all of our festival venues. You can also buy the festival’s reusable bottle, available at “ΚΙΜΑ” (Loutra Edipsou) and at “Baroūs” Café (Limni).

More and more of our printed materials are printed on certified environmentally friendly paper. The 5th EFP’s catalogue is printed on ecological, 100% recyclable paper. The materials will be recycled or repurposed at the end of our activities. Instead of throwing paper away, recycle it! A “merch drop-off” option will be available this year, as well as last year, at “ΚΙΜΑ”. If you don’t want it, return it!

Let’s avoid using single-use plastic bottles. If you have one with you or happen to find one around, you can recycle throw-away water bottles at our plastic recycling stations.

We are relying as much as possible on reusable cutlery and products. Opt to buy and consume seasonal and local food and beverages, available at all venues for the duration of your stay in Evia. Along with minimizing the energy spent on transporting materials, you can help strengthen the local economy and diversify your experience!

The 5th EFP continues its eff orts towards the goal of zero-waste management. In collaboration with the Municipalities of Istiea-Edipsos and MantoudiLimni-Agia Anna, and circular waste management companies, such as Siakandaris group and Cigaret Cycle, there will be a daily collection, sorting, and cyclical management of the waste generated from all the event spots in Edipsos, Limni and Rovies. More specifi cally, in the locations where the events will take place, there will be separate recycling bins for paper, plastic, aluminum, glass and cigarette butts. At the end of each event, the collected materials will be transferred to special storage bins. These materials will then be transferred to each company’s waste management facilities to be weighed, recorded and will then gain a second life or be responsibly recycled. Thus, paper, plastic, glass and aluminum will be promoted for recycling and cigarette butts will be turned into fertilizer or raw material of industrial plastic. With the completion of the festival, we will know not only the quantities of materials collected during it, but also how they were managed.