Athens Launches Large-Scale Tree Protection Program Against Invasive Pest

The City of Athens has rolled out a comprehensive tree protection initiative aimed at safeguarding at least 8,000 mulberry trees from the invasive pest Xylotrechus chinensis, which has caused extensive damage to the city’s urban greenery in recent years.

The program is being carried out by the Department of Green Spaces, utilizing advanced equipment that injects protective treatment directly into the trunks of the trees. The operation is being conducted early in the morning during July and August, optimizing protection during the beetle’s active season.

“We aim to build an effective shield for thousands of vulnerable trees by the end of August,” stated Deputy Mayor for Green Spaces and Environment, Giorgos Apostolopoulos, adding that under normal circumstances, these trees would be at serious risk of drying out or dying.

The Xylotrechus chinensis beetle was first detected in Athens around 2019–2020 and has since led to the loss of approximately 5,000 trees, sparking urgency for proactive measures.

In parallel, the municipality has also launched a campaign against aphid infestations on the city’s orange trees. This includes eco-friendly pressure-washing techniques, using high-pressure water to clean affected leaves—an approach that avoids the use of harsh chemicals.

These efforts are part of a broader urban resilience strategy, as Athens works to preserve its green infrastructure and combat the environmental threats posed by climate change and invasive species.

Source: pagenews.gr