Get involved in the regeneration of an island region in Greece, on a stunning island in the Aegean Sea! See all our projects in Europe here.
Ecosystem conservation on the island of Syros
Apano Meria, which covers nearly 45% of Syros, is a NATURA 2000 protected area renowned for its natural beauty, biodiversity and history. It is characterised by steep, rocky hills, secluded beaches and traditional dry-stone terraces.
It remains untouched by mass tourism. The region is home to rare flora and fauna, significant geological formations such as eclogites and glaucophane blue schists, as well as major archaeological sites such as the ancient settlement of Kastri and the Chalandriani necropolis. Its ecological, geological and cultural value makes Apano Meria a vital conservation and heritage area. Our partner’s aim is to preserve and protect the island’s natural and cultural heritage, with a focus on Apano Meria.
The work of the eco-volunteer
Four types of assignment are available
Environmental policies and legislation
The programme focuses on research into environmental policy and law. Our partner conducts comparative research into the legal and policy provisions and practices in force in various countries around the world in the field of the environment (protected areas, renewable energy, endangered species, etc.).
Traditional primary production practices
Take part in farming activities that respect dry Mediterranean environments: permaculture, composting, water conservation, and monitoring experimental micro-plots.
Ideal for discovering farming in an arid climate.
Plastic Recycling and Reuse (Precious Plastic Syros Lab)
Artisanal recycling of plastic collected on the island, through the Precious Plastic programme: sorting, shredding, moulding and creating useful items for the community.
A hands-on, educational workshop offering an introduction to the circular economy.
Practical activities with the cooperative
Versatile support: trail maintenance, building renovation, logistics, signage or administrative tasks, depending on current needs.
An accessible role, serving the community.
Your research will contribute to the creation of an open-access scientific database on issues relating to the Cyclades ecosystem, as well as to the publication of information papers and policy proposals.
Research participants work 5 days a week – 4 hours a day.
- Open all year round
- Minimum duration: 2 weeks
- Best times to visit: March to June & September to November – pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists.
- PRICE: €840 for two weeks.
- €60 per day
The price includes:
- Accommodation
- Breakfast and lunch 5 days a week – Kitchen facilities available in the accommodation for other meals.
- Supervision
- Access to communal areas (Wi-Fi, kitchen, office, etc.)
Does not include:
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Minimum age: 18
- Language: English
- Good physical mobility (the terrain can be steep at times)
- Open to interns and Erasmus+ students
- ARRIVAL:
- Arrive at Mykonos Airport, then take the ferry from Mykonos to Syros.
- By plane to Syros (Syros Island Airport JSY)
- On arrival in Athens: take the ferry to Syros.
- ACCOMMODATION: in the volunteers’ house (dormitory-style)
- MEALS: Breakfast 5 days a week.
Lunch 5 days a week, prepared by a local women-run cooperative.
- A unique experience in a Natura 2000 protected area
- Four diverse programmes within a single overarching project
- A warm welcome in a small, friendly establishment
- A sense of community, deeply rooted in the local area
- Flexible organisation: a timetable tailored to each individual
The island of Syros is full of trails, coves and villages to explore. In their free time, volunteers can go for a hike, go for a swim, cook together or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of the surrounding countryside. It’s the perfect setting for combining a sense of purpose with a chance to recharge your batteries.
About the partner
Our partner is a social cooperative established in 2017 by enthusiasts from the northern part of Syros, driven by a commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development. Through research, environmental education, volunteering and culture, the ECS aims to promote, preserve and protect the island’s natural and cultural heritage, with a particular focus on Apano Meria.
.
