A way to a greener city

Initiatives promoting urban vegetable gardens have existed in the past in Greece, with some municipal authorities setting aside a few parcels of land for people who want to grow their own tomatoes, lettuces and other produce.

A few days ago, however, the management agency of the capital's Antonis Tritsis Park announced an ambitious new project - possibly the largest of its kind in Greece - that will not only benefit low-income residents in the vicinity, but will also come as a breath of fresh air for the park itself. Part of the park's 120-hectare expanse will be loaned out to families so they can maintain their own vegetable patch. Run in cooperation with the Athens Agricultural University, the scheme foresees 10 hectares being planted.

The university's role is advisory, with its professors and students being on hand to give tips about what plants will grow best in...