Air pollution poses a significant public health threat in Piraeus. It causes serious diseases, including cancer, strokes, lung conditions, and heart disease. According to the European Environmental Agency (EEA), air pollution is responsible for 8-10% of all deaths in the European Union. In Greece, air pollution causes approximately 15,500 deaths each year—13% of all deaths in the country.
In comparison, air pollution in Greece killed 62,000 people between 2020 and 2023, while COVID-19 claimed 37,500 lives in the same period. Unlike COVID-19, however, there is no vaccine for air pollution. Reducing emissions is the only way to address this silent killer.
The high cost of air pollution
The economic toll of air pollution is staggering. Health costs linked to diseases caused by pollution in the EU are equivalent to about 5% of the region’s Gross National Product (GNP). The European Commission estimates that air pollution costs the EU around 500 billion EUR annually.
For cities like Piraeus, the impact is particularly severe. Ships, especially cruise ships and ferries, are major sources of pollution. These vessels burn fuel oil that contains 100 times more sulfur than road diesel. As they dock in the port, they emit harmful pollutants that negatively affect air quality.
Piraeus: A port city trapped by pollution
Piraeus’ geography makes it especially vulnerable to pollution. The city almost completely encircles the port, trapping pollutants in residential areas. Additionally, many ships dock in Piraeus year-round, releasing harmful emissions at the same height as nearby homes. This means that local residents are exposed to high levels of air pollution, regardless of wind direction.
Recent measurements taken in Piraeus show high levels of pollution. Harmful substances, such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter, have been detected at levels that exceed safe limits. These pollutants are linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, putting the public’s health at serious risk.
The EU’s role in reducing ship emissions
The European Union is working to combat shipping-related pollution. One key initiative is the LIFE4MECA project, which aims to reduce ship emissions in Mediterranean ports. The project encourages ships to use cleaner fuels and install catalytic converters to cut down on harmful pollutants. This initiative has proven successful in Northern Europe, where similar projects have significantly reduced emissions.
In addition, the EU has introduced the FuelEU Maritime regulation. Starting in 2030, all container and passenger ships (including cruise ships) must connect to shore power in major EU ports, including Piraeus. Shore power allows ships to use electricity from the port’s grid instead of running their engines while docked, significantly cutting emissions.
While this regulation will take effect in 2030, Piraeus cannot afford to wait. Immediate action is needed to reduce emissions and improve air quality. By addressing the problem early, the port can meet EU air quality standards and avoid potential legal action.
Implementing cleaner shipping solutions
The first step to cleaner shipping in Piraeus is the installation of shore power infrastructure for ferries and cruise ships. This solution has been successful in Northern Europe, where ports have reduced pollution by allowing ships to plug into the grid while docked. Piraeus should prioritize this development to improve air quality quickly.
Shore power infrastructure can pay for itself. Ships will be charged connection fees, and ports can impose additional fees on vessels that choose not to use shore power. The longer Piraeus waits, the higher the cost of installation will become. Therefore, it is vital to start planning now.
Harnessing solar energy for shore power
Greece is blessed with abundant sunshine, making it an ideal location for generating electricity from solar panels. Piraeus could generate much of the shore power electricity it needs through solar energy. If planned well, this project could attract green investors, such as pension funds focused on sustainable projects.
This green energy solution would help reduce emissions, lower the port’s carbon footprint, and improve air quality for local residents. Additionally, it would align with Greece’s broader green energy goals.
Electrifying smaller ferries and boats
Beyond shore power for large vessels, the electrification of smaller ferries and boats is another effective way to reduce pollution in Piraeus. Many regions around the world have already begun transitioning to electric ferries, and Piraeus should follow suit. Electrifying smaller boats will further reduce reliance on fossil fuels and help improve air quality in the city.
Monitoring pollution and planning for action
To better understand the extent of the pollution problem, Em. Professor of Marine Environment Basil Tselentis from The Piraeus Observatory is conducting year-round measurements of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels in Piraeus. These measurements will help assess the impact of shipping emissions on public health and determine whether EU air quality standards are being violated.
The results of this study will be ready in early 2025 and will be presented at a large conference in Piraeus in April 2025. This conference will highlight the urgent need for action to reduce pollution and protect the health of residents.
The road ahead: A cleaner, healthier Piraeus
By taking immediate steps to reduce pollution from ships, Piraeus can create a cleaner and healthier environment for its residents. The implementation of shore power, the electrification of ferries, and the use of solar energy for green electricity are all part of a comprehensive strategy to improve air quality.
With the right investment and planning, Piraeus can meet its environmental obligations and become a leader in sustainable port operations. The time to act is now, before 2030, to ensure a cleaner, greener future for the port city and its inhabitants.
*Kåre Press-Kristensen is Senior Advisor, Green Global Future, kpk@greenglobalfuture.org