Breeze or burden? Locals fear wind farm impact on wild forests

In the Mavri Petra (Black Stone) area of northern Evros, near Greece's border with Bulgaria, two wind farms have been approved for construction. The local community, which has cultivated ecotourism with hiking trails and nature-based activities, fears the disruption these developments could bring. 

Local activist and biodiversity advocate Theodoros Manousidis explained that these areas have become key for alternative tourism, especially around the picturesque village of Petrota. However, with the construction of the wind farms, residents worry about the environmental damage, including deforestation and landscape alterations, which may undermine the region's appeal for ecotourism and wildlife. 
"These projects are not opposed due to renewable energy, but the location is problematic," said Manousidis, noting the rapid development of wind power in the region.