Aspects of Climate Change in Greece

The Mediterranean is projected to be a climate change hot spot region with rising temperatures and reduced precipitation already occurring, expected to become more severe in the future. This chapter discusses the observed and projected climate change in Greece based on the simulations of various regional climate models. Temperature is projected to rise significantly by the end of the twenty-first century, with the greatest increases in the mainland during summer. Overall, precipitation is expected to decrease, with the longest drought periods projected over the eastern part of the country. Future climate projections also indicate that the next decades will see a significant increase in the frequency of extreme climate events. Prolonged dry spells and frequent heatwaves enhance the risk for severe droughts, lower crop yields, forest fires, biodiversity losses, soil and ecosystem degradation, and increasing demand for water and energy. Intense heatwaves also place a great stress on human health, particularly in urban areas. The intensity of these changes depends on how bold policies will be implemented worldwide to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. All countries need to be involved in this effort. In the context of this paper, an overview of the policies planned in Greece to reduce GHG emissions in the time horizon of 2030 is also presented.