The Book of Abstracts gathers summaries of the papers delivered during the II International Conference, "The Dramatic Changes on the Planet and the Hellenic Roots of Ecological Ethics," held at the University of Patras Conference Center from 17 to 20 June 2018. Contributors spanned meteorology, environmental engineering, medicine, and climate psychology, connecting ancient Greek thought with contemporary ecological concerns.

The II International Conference held at the University of Patras Conference Center brought together scholars from diverse scientific fields to examine the deepening environmental crisis through the lens of ancient Hellenic thought. Participants from meteorology, environmental engineering, medicine, and climate psychology contributed research that traced modern ecological ethics back to their philosophical roots in classical Greece. The conference explored how Presocratic and classical philosophers articulated humanity's relationship with nature, offering timeless principles that remain relevant today. By investigating the intellectual heritage of Hellenic civilization, the gathering sought to bridge ancient wisdom with contemporary scientific understanding of planetary degradation and ecosystem protection.

Central to the conference discussions was the recognition that ancient Greek philosophy provided some of the earliest frameworks for ecological ethics. Thinkers from antiquity contemplated humanity's place within the natural world, emphasizing harmony, balance, and responsibility toward the environment. These foundational ideas were examined alongside modern environmental challenges including pollution, climate change, and biodiversity loss. The interdisciplinary approach allowed specialists to investigate how Hellenic values of moderation and respect for nature could inform present-day measures for environmental protection. The proceedings highlighted the enduring relevance of classical thought in addressing the dramatic changes unfolding across the planet.

The Book of Abstracts compiled for this conference represents a significant contribution to the growing field of environmental humanities. Each submission underwent rigorous review to ensure original, unpublished research that meaningfully connected ancient Greek philosophical traditions with contemporary ecological concerns. The collection features contributions from invited speakers and regular participants alike, covering topics that range from the philosophical foundations of environmental ethics to practical approaches for sustainable living. This scholarly work demonstrates how interdisciplinary dialogue between the humanities and natural sciences can yield fresh perspectives on the most pressing environmental issues of our time.

The conference venue in Patras provided an appropriate setting for deliberations on Hellenic ecological ethics, situated within a region rich in ancient cultural heritage. The organizing committee structured the program to include keynote addresses, parallel sessions, and poster presentations, allowing for extensive exchange of ideas among researchers from multiple countries. Special emphasis was placed on the role of education in promoting environmental awareness, drawing upon Hellenic values that have shaped Western civilization. The gathering concluded with a commitment to continued investigation of how ancient philosophical principles can guide humanity toward more responsible stewardship of the earth and its ecosystems.