The Three-member Misdemeanor Appeal Court of Thessaloniki acquitted a former high-ranking executive of “Hellenic Petroleum” (EL.PE) who was accused of pollution and environmental degradation, an act connected to the operation of the Thessaloniki refinery.

The case, examined in the second degree, related to violations and omissions, as described in the findings report drawn up by Environmental Inspectors and related to the period 2016-17.

There had previously been repeated complaints from residents of the Kordelios – Evosmos area about a strong stench in western Thessaloniki.

The former executive in his apology denied the accusation, stressing that the company shows particular sensitivity to environmental issues, which goes back to its strategy and is of the highest priority. He also noted that the appeal of the odors was below the prescribed limits, while regarding the stench, he pointed out that it is a multifactorial issue and expressed the opinion that this specific issue “unfortunately will continue in the coming years”. For this reason, he emphasized the need to prepare a comprehensive study, with the participation of the State and all the agencies involved, and the funder EL.PE.

At first instance for the same case, he was sentenced to 12 months in prison, suspended for 3 years.