Greece is missing out on an estimated 2 billion euros annually by not fully utilising the tourism potential of its Natura 2000 areas, according to a recent study by DiaNEOSIS, an Athens-based research organisation.
With over 25 percent of Greece’s land included in the EU’s Natura 2000 network, even a modest tourism development of 40 percent of this protected area could provide a significant boost to the nation's economy.
The study, conducted in collaboration with OFYPEKA, the government agency overseeing Natura 2000 areas, suggests that sustainable tourism in these regions could create 15,000 new jobs while preserving their ecological integrity. Examples of such areas include the Prespes Lakes, the Rodopi forests, and the Sporades Sea Park, home to the endangered Monachus Monachus seal.
These protected regions offer immense opportunities for ecotourism, agrotourism, and cultural tourism, benefiting local communities. Tourism expert and co-author of the study, Professor Paris Tsartas, emphasised that "mild economic activity in Natura areas provides incentives for their protection."
Despite their current underutilisation, Natura 2000 areas already generate financial benefits of approximately 2 billion euros each year, compared to the 148.5 million euros spent annually on their management. The budget for these areas, allocated from 2021 to 2027, includes over 1 billion euros for sustainable tourism initiatives, supported by EU regional and structural funds.
The researchers propose that revenue could be generated through visitor fees, similar to models in the Samaria Gorge and Sporades Sea Park, along with income from local products and events held within the protected areas.
(Source: GTP)