The Ellinikon Park in Elliniko, Greece, is a groundbreaking urban development project that aims to transform a former airport into a sustainable and expansive green space. With an impressive 200 hectares dedicated to greenery, it will be one of the largest urban parks in Europe, offering a much-needed respite from the urban heat island effect. This ambitious project is not just about aesthetics; it's a carefully designed ecosystem that addresses environmental challenges and enhances the well-being of the surrounding community.
One of the key features of the Ellinikon Park is its focus on sustainable water management. The park incorporates a state-of-the-art wastewater treatment unit with a capacity of 7,000 cubic meters of treated water per day, ensuring that all non-potable uses, including irrigation, are met. Additionally, a storage tank with a 10,000 cubic meter capacity further bolsters the park's water security, making it resilient during periods of increased heat stress. The park's smart irrigation system, utilizing data from weather and soil sensors, can precisely adjust water volumes to the actual needs of the vegetation, potentially saving up to 90% of water.
The park's design also prioritizes thermal comfort. Digital simulations, employing thermal mapping and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), were used to weave microclimates into the park's layout. This resulted in the creation of 'cool routes' where temperatures can be up to four degrees Celsius lower than in neighboring asphalted areas. Rest areas are designed with a shading ratio of over 60%, promoting natural air circulation. The park's vegetation, including more than 520 species of flora, enhances evapotranspiration, further improving thermal comfort conditions.
Furthermore, the park's infrastructure is designed to manage rainwater effectively. Green and blue infrastructure is employed to handle 100% of rainwater on-site, and the restoration of natural flows, such as the Trachones stream, is pursued to enhance flood protection. The park's surfaces and pavings utilize Greek natural materials like Kavala marble and Karystos slate, contributing to both durability and thermal comfort, while ensuring a harmonious blend with the Attic landscape.
What sets the Ellinikon Park apart is its coastal character. Directly connected to a two-kilometer seafront, it stands as the largest coastal urban park in Europe. This unique feature sets it apart from most large European parks, which are often enclosed within the urban fabric. The park's size is also impressive, surpassing iconic historic parks like London's Hyde Park and Berlin's Tiergarten. With its ambitious scale and innovative design, the Ellinikon Park is poised to become a model for sustainable park development, offering a much-needed green oasis in a rapidly urbanizing world.
