Tuesday, August 20, 2024 A new study has revealed that Greece is leaving billions of euros on the table by underutilizing its Natura 2000 protected areas for tourism. With over a quarter of the country’s land designated as part of the EU’s ecological network, the potential for sustainable tourism in these pristine regions is immense. According to research conducted by DiaNEOSIS, Greece could generate an additional 2 billion euros annually by developing just 40% of its Natura 2000 areas for tourism.
This economic boost would also create an estimated 15,000 new jobs while preserving the fragile ecosystems. Examples of these untapped gems include the Prespes Lakes, the Rodopi forests, and the Sporades Sea Park, home to the endangered Mediterranean monk seal. These areas offer unparalleled opportunities for ecotourism, agro tourism, and cultural tourism, benefiting both the environment and local communities.
Professor Paris Tsartas, a co-author of the study, emphasized that mild economic activity in Natura areas provides incentives for their protection. Despite their current underutilization, these protected areas already contribute approximately 2 billion euros to the Greek economy annually. To maximize the potential of Natura 2000, the study recommends implementing visitor fees, similar to those in the Samaria Gorge and Sporades Sea Park, and promoting local products and events within these areas.
With over 1 billion euros allocated for sustainable tourism initiatives in the 2021-2027 budget, Greece has a unique opportunity to unlock the full potential of its natural treasures..
