What should be pristine, protected natural and cultural heritage sites in Greece are increasingly being treated as dumping grounds.

At least 130 cases of waste dumping have been documented by the Hellenic Institute of Speleological Research with some Municipalities allegedly using caves and gorges to hide waste, ignoring the environmental and cultural damage.

The Institute, despite scarce resources have recently taken steps to clear up three sites near Monemvasia, Peloponnese. They report that allegedly: – 

• Geological formations are being destroyed.
• Archaeological sites are damaged.
• Biodiversity is threatened.
• Underground water sources can be compromised.

We are all possibly aware of waste historically dumped in Gorges around Mani, although it should be acknowledged that the overall situation regarding waste management has considerably improved under the current Administration in West Mani. What are your thoughts?