2,450 km of Free-Flowing Rivers Lost in the Balkans: Report on Greece

A new study by the 'Save the Blue Heart of Europe' campaign reveals that 2,450 kilometers of free-flowing rivers in the Balkans have been lost in 13 years, reducing natural rivers by 7%. The study, completed in 2025 by Riverwatch and EuroNatur, examined 83,824 kilometers of rivers in 11 countries, including Greece.

Fanoikos Sakellarakis, Program Coordinator for Water at the Mediterranean Institute for Nature and Man (MedINA), emphasizes the importance of ecological connectivity of rivers. According to the report, 35% of rivers in Greece retain their natural state, while 33% have been slightly modified. Approximately 3,500 km of river networks have been significantly modified, with the Aliakmonas and Acheloos rivers being characteristic examples.

The report highlights that Greece is in a better condition compared to other Balkan countries, such as Albania, which has lost a significant number of rivers. Mr. Sakellarakis points out that rivers face threats from climate change and the construction of hydroelectric projects. In the Balkans, there are over 1,800 hydroelectric projects in operation and 3,000 under licensing. In Greece, 120 small hydroelectric projects contribute only 1.6% of electricity production.

Mr. Sakellarakis emphasizes the need for a new spatial plan for renewable energy sources and the implementation of the EU regulation on nature restoration, which aims to free 25,000 kilometers of rivers by 2030.