The Challenge
Andros, the Cycladic island that took its name from its many water springs, with a rich history of sustainable water management, is experiencing growing water stress mostly due to climate change, agricultural decline, and rising tourism. Centuries-old spring systems that once supported agriculture, ecosystems, and daily life are being degraded or abandoned, while unregulated drilling and overconsumption place increasing pressure on groundwater reserves.
While many springs are still used by residents for drinking and irrigation, trust in water quality is declining, leading to increased bottled water use and plastic pollution. The potentially inadequate water quality of the springs may be due to other causes that need to be identified and addressed.
Without local knowledge and data on spring health, these natural and cultural assets may be lost. With water scarcity, quality, and its management together being crucial for biodiversity preservation, actions need to be taken.
The Solution
Andros island holds a centuries-old sustainable water management practice, which includes spring “cultivation” and operation of a surface water irrigation system, where the springs are an emblem.
With CPF’s support, Andros Research Circle will launch a community observatory for the island’s springs, combining scientific expertise and citizen participation. Field recording, digital mapping, and ongoing monitoring will be carried out to document the condition of the springs and understand their contribution to water security, biodiversity, and climate resilience. The initiative will promote local stewardship by highlighting the springs as shared natural and cultural resources — key to Andros’ identity and environmental sustainability. It will also offer a replicable model for data-driven, community-led water management on Greek islands facing similar pressures.
Activities
With CPF Support, Andros Research Center will:
- Record springs in Northern and Southern Andros through structured fieldwork using digital and analog tools.
- Measure water parameters such as pH, conductivity, TDS, and temperature using specialized equipment.
- Design and partially implement a digital platform for the springs of Andros including the first upload of field data.
- Collect and compile existing meteorological data from operational weather stations across the island.
- Interview key local informants to document traditional knowledge and practices of spring “cultivation.”
- Produce awareness campaigns and two promotional videos to strengthen community engagement.
- Highlight the springs’ cultural and ecological value through community events and communication actions.
A detailed project report will be written and disseminated to summarize findings and lessons learned.
About the Grantee
Andros Research Center is a local initiative of researchers, community members, and environmental actors committed to promoting knowledge-based sustainability on the island of Andros. Through fieldwork, citizen engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration, the team works to strengthen environmental stewardship and revitalize traditional ecological knowledge.
What You Can Do
- If you live in Andros or spent time in Andros explore the possibility of participate actively in the project’s activities, reach to Andros Research Center, or Contact CPF to bring you in contact with the team.
- Make a donation to CPF to continue supporting such initiatives in Cyclades
