Initiatives for Sustainable Tourism
The Minister of Tourism, Olga Kefalogianni, presented in Skiathos the main initiatives of the Ministry aimed at ensuring a sustainable future for Greek tourism. In her speech, she referred to measures that enhance the environmental dimension of tourism, simplify investment procedures, and ensure compliance with regulations in short-term rentals.
- Establishment of an environmental classification system for hotels and, optionally, for non-primary accommodations.
- Possibility of using seawater in swimming pools to save water resources.
- Creation of a Coastal and Marine Tourism Observatory in cooperation with the World Tourism Organization.
- Simplification of licensing procedures for tourism infrastructure and a more favorable framework for investments.
- New framework for short-term rentals with minimum operating and safety standards, as well as strict legality checks.
Utilization of Resources and Special Forms of Tourism
The Minister made special reference to the utilization of resources from the Recovery and Resilience Fund, with projects that support maritime, diving, thermal, agrotourism, and gastronomic tourism. At the same time, actions are being implemented to highlight the country’s natural and cultural capital through the use of modern digital tools.
Skiathos was highlighted as a typical example of a destination with natural beauty, cultural heritage, and local initiatives that support a comprehensive strategy for sustainable development.
Partnerships for Environmental Protection
Ms. Kefalogianni emphasized cooperation with key organizations, such as the Athanasios K. Laskaridis Charitable Foundation, the “Thalassa” Foundation, and the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, for initiatives to protect the marine environment and manage bio-waste.
At the same time, she showcased initiatives such as the “Bike Friendly” certification, the development and promotion of trail networks, as well as the promotion of local gastronomy.
Accessible Tourism
During her visit, the Minister met with psychologist and educator Maria Iliopoulou, founding member of IKE “Open Horizons.” The meeting focused on the importance of accessibility in tourism, with Ms. Kefalogianni stressing that it constitutes a strategic priority.
She emphasized the establishment of the Accessible Tourism Destination Label and the Accessible Tourism Business Label, while referring to the creation of a working group and the conduct of primary research to shape a strategy in this field.
In parallel, training seminars are already being implemented for students of tourism schools to provide services to people with disabilities or autism spectrum disorders.
Tourism and Film Productions
The Minister held a meeting with Ms. May Liu, President of the Superstar Art Foundation and producer of the film “Aegean Love,” which is currently being filmed in Skiathos.
The discussion focused on the possibilities of further promoting Greece as a location for film productions and the role of cinema in showcasing Greek tourism internationally.
Conclusions
Concluding her speech, Ms. Kefalogianni stressed that achieving the goals of a sustainable, high-quality, and accessible Greek tourism requires close cooperation among all stakeholders: central government, local authorities, organizations, and businesses.
“A common approach is needed, aiming at long-term development in terms of sustainability, the adoption of best practices, and the continuous improvement of our services.”
