The Issue of Post-Industrial Brownfields in Piraeus, Greece: Suggesting International Best Practices in the Era of Globalization

Abstract

Piraeus, Greece’s capital port city since the ancient times, is now home to many abandoned industrial sites that present an opportunity for revitalization through regeneration. This article presents applications of brownfield regeneration policies from the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the EU Brodise Program for the case of Piraeus, Greece. The paper includes a theoretical framework that introduces the historical patterns of development through globalization and changing economic systems that led to the presence of brownfield sites around the world. The research utilizes field work at major brownfield sites in Piraeus including site visits and stakeholder interviews, alongside literature review. The ultimate goal of the article is to exemplify areas of proven brownfield regeneration success internationally that can be applied to future policies to support efficient, transparent, and sustainable regeneration projects in Greece.