The Nature
Within its relatively small land area, Greece contains
an astonishing variety of ecosystems. Wetlands, old-growth forests, fertile
shallows, and thousands of islands contribute to Greece's biodiversity. Greece
shelters many endangered animals, including the Mediterranean sea
turtle (Carretta-Carretta) and the monk
seal (Monachus-Monachus). The northern forests are home to the wildcat,
marten, brown bear, roe deer, and occasionally wolf, wild boar, and lynx. Jackals,
wild goats, and hedgehogs live in the south. Greece is an important winter habitat
for migratory birds. Marine life is equally rich and varied.
Greece relies mainly on lignite-fueled power stations
and hydro-electricity. Usage of solar, wind, and geothermal power are increasing,
and Greece has plentiful supplies of these renewable resources. Greece is rich
in bauxite (aluminium ore): local reserves amount to over 650 million metric
tonnes. Greece has some deposits of fossil fuels, but their exploitation is
complicated by a dispute with Turkey over the continental shelf.
Agriculture
About 30% of Greece's territory consists of arable land. The rest is rocky scrub, mountain, or forest. Greek agriculture has benefited from European Union subsidies. Olives and olive oil, grapes, melons, peaches, tomatoes and oranges are among Greece's most important crops. Tobacco and cotton are major exports. Several fine Greek regional wines are now on the international market.
Farming
While shepherding is still a prominent feature of Greek farming, technological advances and an expanding luxury food market have affected rural life. Greek agricultural exports include cheese, yoghurt, and more unexpected specialties such as snails and frogs' legs.
Fishing
The Greek fishing industry is strictly regulated, in order to protect the Mediterranean from over-fishing and pollution. Fish-farming and aqua-culture have grown considerably in recent years.
Forestry
Forests cover approximately one-fifth of Greece's land area. 1999 was a turning point in the fight against forest fires. Thanks to a new fleet of fire-fighter planes manned by specially trained pilots, reece's future looks greener.
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