On May 12, 2026, information and awareness-raising actions for students were successfully carried out at the Messara Agricultural School and 4 school units in Heraklion by PANETAIK S.A., within the framework of the European project CSSBoost (Boosting Circular Systemic Solutions through Virtual Regional Circular Economy Space).
Participating Schools and Objectives
The actions involved the Messara Agricultural School and a joint environmental awareness group of schools in Heraklion, specifically:
- 6th Vocational High School (EPAL) of Heraklion
- General High School (GEL) of Gazi
- 1st Vocational High School (EPAL) of Heraklion
- 1st Laboratory Center of Heraklion
The objective of these sessions was to inform the educational community about the circular economy, green fertilization, sustainable development, environmental protection, and the active participation of youth in strengthening environmental consciousness.
Key Presentations and Principles
During the presentations, the Director of PANETAIK S.A., Ms. Maria Petrantonaki, detailed the core principles of the circular economy. She emphasized the necessary transition from the linear “take-make-dispose” model to a new model that maintains resource value, reduces waste, and promotes sustainability.
Particular focus was placed on applications within the agri-food sector, such as utilizing agricultural and livestock residues for:
- Energy production
- Fertilizer production
- New high-value-added products
Subsequently, Ms. Katerina Litou, a project management associate at PANETAIK S.A., presented the CSSBoost project. This initiative is implemented under the Horizon program with the participation of 21 partners from 8 countries. She highlighted the project’s contribution to innovative circular solutions, specifically focusing on the Crete Pilot, which utilizes agri-food by-products through new value chains.
Local Initiatives and Student Engagement
The event also showcased the initiatives of the Heraklion school group, which has spent four years promoting recycling and volunteering. Current actions include:
- Collection and sorting of recyclable materials
- Placement of recycling bins in classrooms in collaboration with ESDAK
- Pilot actions for collecting and categorizing expired medicines to protect the environment and marine ecosystems
The session concluded with a discussion where students learned about modern sustainable practices and the importance of youth involvement in environmental protection. A highlight was the presentation of original artworks made from recyclable materials created by the students to creatively depict marine pollution and the need for natural preservation.
Closing Statements
PANETAIK S.A. expressed warm thanks to the educators and school units for their hospitality and their significant work in environmental education. The agency expressed its commitment to strengthening cooperation with the educational community of Crete through future initiatives promoting circularity and sustainability for the next generation.
