The challenge:
Lack of water is a major worldwide problem, which is increasingly intensifying on the Cyclades islands leading to negative environmental effects such as; freshwater shortages, soil degradation, loss of vegetation, coastal erosion, saltwater intrusion, marine ecosystem disruptions, increased wildfires, and biodiversity loss.
Ιn response to this threat, expensive and environmentally costly solutions such as water desalination are being promoted, addressing the needs of us and our modern way of living while ignoring the needs of other animals and of the whole ecosystem.
Historically, the Cyclades have had a variety of ways to find and manage water sustainably, through the natural water sources that exist on each island. Yet, at a time when we take so much for granted, these practices fade and along with them the desired solution. It is our duty to regain that knowledge, revisit the island’s natural springs, and protect the most precious thing we have: water.
The solution:
Τhe need to protect water in our islands is a key priority for the CPF. Among the many things we can do in the face of this complex challenge of water scarcity, an important step is to raise public awareness, but also to revive certain water management practices.
That’s why in 2024 we have decided to support CINEMATHESIS to implement a community-based activity in the island of Kea, an island connected since ancient times with water (the ancient Greeks called it Ydrousa, meaning the watery island).
CINEMATHESIS in collaboration with the High Schools of Kea will implement a series of educational activities to mobilize children and the local community on the importance of water, reminding the community the importance of water, and (re)teaching them past and modern ways to preserve it. At the same time, a documentary called “The Voice of Water” will be made by the students and through the guidance of the CINEMATHESIS experts, and is to be disseminated among Cyclades and the world to further spread the message.
Take a sneak peak at the trailer here! (via facebook)
Activities:
The team of CINEMATHESIS will set up groups of students and train them in order to work on the long and demanding process of making a documentary: From research at community level and identifying the springs of the island, to the creating the script, film and audio recordings, editing and production.
Α rich audio-visual resource will be delivered in 2025, through the work of students with the involvement of the local community and the engagement of local cultural and landscape associations such as the Women’s Association of Kea “Meliti”, Association of Kea “Agios Isidoros”, Cultural Association “Karthaia” (Kato Meria), and the Cultural Association of Otzia. Special thanks to Principal Anna Mavroudi for the exceptional collaboration.
“The children lend their voices to the water.
The water in turn tells the story of a place, the island of Kea, through its own destruction.
The deserted and arid springs of Kea speak of the wounds of nature, the abandonment of structures and man seeking ways to save the environment and ensure his own survival in terms of sustainability.”
About the Grantee:
CINEMATHESIS consists of experienced and specialised professionals in the field of cinema, arts and education. Their educational programmes are implemented mainly in remote places such as isolated islands and secluded villages offering a rich social and cultural impact.
What you can do:
- Learn more about the Cycladic landscape through our ‘On the Land’ webinar, with expert presentations on the climate, ecosystems, and sustainable initiatives preserving the islands. Make water-wise decisions when you are visiting Aegean islands.
- Make a donation to CPF to support similar activities
- Keep informed about water challenges world wide and see what you can do – by following CPF in social media.
