The University of Thessaly, consistently committed to sustainability, innovation, and social responsibility strategies, signed the Local Green Deal (LGD) titled “UNI eBikes” on Monday, March 24, 2025, in collaboration with the Municipality of Larissa. This initiative is implemented within the framework of the European project Intelligent Cities Challenge (ICC), which supports European cities in their green and digital transition.
The Local Green Deal was signed by the Rector of the University of Thessaly, Professor Charalambos Billinis, and the Mayor of Larissa, Mr. Athanasios Mamakos, during a special ceremony at the City Hall. Also present were the Vice-Rector for Financial and Administrative Affairs, Professor Panagiotis Plageras, as well as members of the ICC team of the Municipality of Larissa, Professor Panos Fitsilis (ICC Project Manager) and Vasilis Kyriatzis (Local ICC Officer).
The agreement includes the installation of a shared electric bicycle station on the GAIOPOLIS campus, providing students, staff, and visitors with a modern, accessible, and environmentally friendly means of transportation.
This initiative aligns fully with the university's ESG strategic goals by promoting environmental responsibility through emission reduction and the use of sustainable transportation (Environmental), enhancing equal access to modern infrastructure for the entire university community (Social), and reaffirming the university's commitment to transparent and responsible governance in collaboration with local and international partners (Governance).
The Rector of the University of Thessaly, Professor Charalambos Billinis, stated:
“The collaboration with the Municipality of Larissa has been a model partnership between local government and higher education. The UNI eBikes initiative strengthens the university’s role as an institutional partner in promoting and implementing green and innovative solutions that address contemporary urban challenges. Mayor Athanasios Mamakos, the ICC team, the responsible Deputy Mayors, and municipal services have played a crucial role in preparing and implementing the LGD, demonstrating their firm commitment to sustainable urban mobility. The University of Thessaly sincerely thanks them for their cooperation and support in this important initiative.”
The administration of the University of Thessaly extends its sincere appreciation to the academic staff members, Professor Panos Fitsilis of the Department of Business Administration and Vasilis Kyriatzis, EDIΠ of the Department of Digital Systems, for their substantial and decisive contribution to the success of the UNI eBikes initiative through their active participation in the ICC team of the Municipality of Larissa.
Attached is the official press release.
