“In the past 12 months, a key milestone has been the launch of a €2 billion fund to support the decarbonisation of our GR-eco Islands, by transitioning from oil-fired power to renewable energy sources,” said Skarveli.
“Additionally, we have passed a new bill allowing the use of seawater in hotel pools on drought-affected islands to help conserve precious freshwater resources.”
The GR-Eco Islands initiative, which addresses 40 Greek isles, operates in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and aims to help drive the country towards its target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030.
Another significant move made by the country is the introduction of a €20 fee payable by anyone visiting Santorini and Mykonos on a cruise during high season, which will be effective from summer 2025 in an attempt to curb overtourism on the islands.
These steps come with the launch of a promotional campaign designed to highlight Greece’s mountain experiences, as well as the work the country is doing to encourage travel to these lesser-visited alpine areas. This includes developing ski resorts and adding more accommodation options in the mountains.
“I’m very excited for Greece to be the TTG Sustainable Travel Heroes Destination Partner again in 2025,” said Skarveli.
“Greece has made impressive strides in promoting eco-friendly travel experiences while preserving its rich cultural heritage, mainly through the updated sustainablegreece.co.uk platform, and this project both highlights the country’s ongoing commitment to responsible tourism and how sustainability and authentic travel can go hand in hand.”
Find out more about the TTG Sustainable Travel Heroes travel agent training programme and Greece’s responsible holidays at ttgmedia.com/sustainabletravelheroes.
