Tag: sustainability

piraeus ship blue horizon

Greece Announces New Tourist Fees to Boost Revenue and Sustainability

Greece is implementing new fees for cruise ship passengers and tourists staying in accommodations, including short-term rentals, starting June 2025. These measures aim to generate revenue for infrastructure improvements and promote sustainable tourism practices, while still expecting record tourism revenue.

naxos

First World Conference on Smart Islands to be held in Greece

The International Hellenic Association (IHA) will host the inaugural World Conference on Smart Islands on September 4-5, 2024, on the island of Pserimos. The event, organized in partnership with local municipalities and under the auspices of the Central Union of Municipalities of Greece (KEDE), aims to address the unique challenges faced by Greek islands, particularly those participating in the EU’s energy independence initiative.

hack

Greece and Türkiye Announce Hackathon 2024 to Foster Innovation and Cooperation

Greece and Türkiye have announced the Greece-Türkiye Hackathon 2024, focusing on “Smart Cities” to foster innovation and cooperation. This event invites young participants from both nations to develop tech solutions for urban living, sustainability, and safety. Co-organised by Bilişim Vadisi and the Athens Startup Business Incubator, the hackathon aims to drive cross-border collaboration. Registration details will be announced soon.

astypalaia

Astypalaia Under Threat: Mega-Tourist Village Sparks Outrage

A controversial mega-tourist village, boasting villas larger than the island’s two main settlements combined, has been greenlit for Astypalaia, sparking outrage and concern for the island’s future…This development casts a shadow over Astypalaia’s future, highlighting the conflict between mass tourism and preserving the unique character of vulnerable destinations.

blue flags

Greece Loses 22 Blue Flags Amid Beach Standards Slip

Greece has suffered a blow to its tourism reputation after losing 22 Blue Flags, a prestigious eco-label awarded to top-quality beaches. Popular holiday destinations like Rhodes and Mykonos were among those stripped of the certification due to failing to meet strict standards for water quality, cleanliness, and visitor facilities. The move highlights the challenges faced by the country in maintaining its pristine coastline while accommodating growing numbers of tourists.

parliam e1721719464830

Hellenic Parliament Undergoes Major Energy and Lighting Upgrades

The Hellenic Parliament recently completed a lighting upgrade project aimed at improving energy efficiency and aesthetics. Funded by the Green Fund, the project utilised high-colour consistency LED lights and a smart control system to significantly reduce energy consumption. The new lighting scheme also incorporates measures to minimise light pollution.

Culture Minister Mendoni

Greek Culture Minister Unveils Action Plan to Protect Antiquities from Climate Change

Culture Minister Lina Mendoni has highlighted the urgent need to protect Greece’s antiquities from climate change. At a Crete conference, she unveiled a plan, including a pilot project funded by the European Recovery and Resilience Facility, to ensure the sustainability of key archaeological sites by 2025. The seminar, supported by the Greek Ministry of Culture and the U.S. Embassy, focuses on developing adaptation strategies for cultural heritage.