Dangerous rise in water levels in Greece’s coastal areas

Question for written answer E-001799/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Emmanouil Fragkos (ECR)

The risk from rising sea levels is visible and increasing all the time. The problem affects coastal areas either through frequent flooding or by a gradual increase in soil salinity, affecting crops and eroding infrastructure, a dangerous reality in the case of coastal roads. The rise in the level depends on the level of global warming, a matter on which, as things stand, no international/interstate agreement can be reached in order to identify joint solutions.

For Greece, with a predicted temperature increase of 3°C by 2100, the sea level is expected to rise by 0.5 to 0.7 metres, with the possibility of a greater rise due to vertical land displacements. Significant Greek scientific studies warn that as early as 2050, at least ten regions of the country will face serious problems. The impacts include the loss of arable land, degradation of water quality and the need to relocate infrastructure and - possibly - populations. It is considered necessary that studies are carried out and measures put in place before these consequences occur.

In view of the above:

• 1.Does the Commission have or does it intend to pursue a detailed mapping of the impacts, in order to support policy choices by the affected Member States and affected citizens?
• 2.Does the Commission have a framework for the preparation of forecast studies and adaptation/coping measures for those affected and local authorities in coastal areas?
• 3.Does the Commission intend to propose new financial frameworks to local authorities for investments to facilitate their adaptation?

Submitted: 2.5.2025