Protection of the environment is one of the most serious issues to plague Greece and over the past few years we have seen a growing number of concerned citizens becoming more sensitive to the needs of the planet. We have also seen a growing portion of the electorate making its political decisions based on the political parties' positions on these issues.

Considering this growing awareness, in addition to the pressing need for a comprehensive green policy, we can only wonder why Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis does not go ahead and open a separate ministry that would be responsible for environmental policy.

As things stand right now, when the country's natural habitats and precious resources are becoming increasingly strained, the only chance for Greece to protect its natural assets lies in a responsible ministry staffed by modern-minded politicians who share the public's concerns and are convinced of the importance of environmental awareness. Protecting the environment, after all, is among the state's most important duties.