The American College of Greece (ACG) announces a multi-year partnership with the Chatzigakis Foundation and MEPP Environmental, aimed at creating tangible environmental and social impact for the Greek seas and marine ecosystems by engaging students, families, citizens, and the academic community. The Ocean Stewards Program, operating under the auspices of the Hellenic Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Environment, and the Australian Embassy in Greece, is set to run for four years. On behalf of ACG, the partnership is coordinated by the Office of Sustainability – Public Affairs.
To mark the launch of this vital alliance, an inaugural beach and underwater clean-up took place in Rafina on March 29, 2026. More than 150 volunteers participated in the coastal and deep-sea clean-up, collecting over 3,865 kg of waste, including large debris such as tree trunks and tires washed ashore. ACG volunteers, including the ACG Sustainability Leaders, the Deree Economics Society, the Management Society, the Accounting & Finance Society, several international students, and Pierce IB 1 students, participated alongside citizens and representatives of various organizations, echoing a strong message about the power of collective action in protecting the environment.
“Participating in the beach clean-up reminded us that sustainability is not an abstract concept, but a series of small, collective actions. As economists, we often analyze incentives and outcomes. This was a clear example of how individual responsibility translates into meaningful collective impact. Initiatives like this strengthen both environmental awareness and community engagement”, mentioned the Deree Economics Society.
The program is rooted in a four-pillar foundation—Education, Environment, Technology, and Society— each closely interconnected with ACG’s mission, values, and 360° sustainability strategy. Through this approach, ACG advances quality education in alignment with SDG 4, fosters a culture of service, and empowers the next generation of leaders to become responsible citizens and professionals, creating a positive ripple effect toward a more sustainable society.
“As an educational institution, we see sustainability not only as a responsibility but also as an opportunity to educate, engage, and empower our community. Through the Ocean Stewards Program, we aim to connect learning with action—building awareness, strengthening environmental literacy, and encouraging active participation in protecting our oceans,” shared Ms. Rania Assariotaki, Director of Sustainability, Office of Sustainability – Public Affairs.
The initiative was operationally supported by MEPP Environmental’s experienced team of free divers, who played a key role in retrieving waste from the seabed. The Volunteer Firefighters of Provalinthos also contributed significantly to the effort. Additional support was provided by organizations including InCommon, KDAP Vrilission “O Krikos,” the CLC Institute, and the Global Shapers Athens Hub.
Distinguished supporters joined the effort, including H.E. Mrs. Alison Duncan, Australian Ambassador to Greece; Mrs. Dimitra Tseva-Mila, Mayor of Rafina-Pikermi; and Mr. Giorgos Tsakalakis, Country Manager of Bolton Hellas.
This inaugural initiative was made possible through the generous support of Bolton Hellas – Rio Mare.
While the beach clean-up marked the official launch of the Ocean Stewards Program, it builds on momentum established earlier in the month during the annual Deree Business Week (March 17–20). In collaboration with the Deree Maritime Society, the program hosted a panel discussion featuring executives from Bolton Hellas, Motor Oil, New Naval, and Vechro Paints. The discussion explored how the convergence of technology, science, and social impact can drive practical solutions for ocean sustainability.
The Hellenic Center for Marine Research (HCMR) serves as the program’s Scientific Academic Partner, ensuring that all environmental interventions are grounded in data, scientific research, and best practices.
