V. Kikilias: Mykonos and Santorini can become global models of sustainable tourism development

“Mykonos and Santorini are two emblematic tourism brands, which due to their impact significantly affect the national image of the Greek tourism product. Therefore, problems faced by these islands are reflected in the overall picture and consequently solutions have a positive impact. Greece as a tourist product “, states the Minister of Tourism, Vassilis Kikilias in Kathimerini, in a report of the newspaper that refers to the legislative initiatives and investment interventions in Mykonos and Santorini, with the aim of highlighting them as models for sustainable development and management of increased demand. accommodation and entertainment, as predicted by a study conducted by a large independent international consulting firm on behalf of the government.

Mr. Kikilias points out that “the government and the Prime Minister have put high on the agenda the issue of turning our islands into models of sustainable development. We started from Halki, there is the example of Astypalea with the cooperation of the private sector. Tourism is decisive, as it can act as a catalyst for developments either positively – by accelerating the changes that the new tourism product offers to an audience with growing environmental concerns – or negatively through the pressures it exerts on resilience and infrastructure while burdening the environment, quality “Given the life of the residents, but also the experience of the visitors. Given the determination of the Greek government to turn Greek islands into models of sustainable development, the integration of those of Mykonos and Santorini will have a multiplier effect.” “That is why we have prepared, after discussing with all stakeholders, two action plans for the two islands with a comprehensive policy for the actions required to achieve the strategic goals: improving the quality of life of the inhabitants, enhancing the visitor experience, to ensure sustainable development and increase tourism revenues “, the Minister of Tourism typically states.

According to the newspaper, the Ministry of Tourism is oriented towards short-term, medium-term and long-term measures, based on the findings of the study. Some of the measures will take the form of strategic investments with the participation of individuals and financial support from European and national funds. Indicatively, as such interventions are proposed the construction of a new port in Monolitho, Santorini, the formulation of a plan for the transition to integrated waste management, the expansion of the water supply and sewerage network, the strengthening of the participation of renewable energy sources in electricity, as well as electricity. mainland network. Studies are also proposed for the development of new parking spaces on both islands.

The same study also envisages the development and activation of a cruise visitor arrival planning mechanism, which is expected to operate in perspective at national level and not only for the two islands. A mechanism that will be developed in cooperation with the Ministry of Shipping and in consultation with the involved local authorities and other stakeholders and social partners and also includes the definition of criteria, both at national and local level, for the number and timing of visitors who can receive the islands.

“It is my deep conviction that with the cooperation of the stakeholders, the two islands can be a global case study for the transition to a new era in terms of sustainability and prosperity,” concluded Mr. Kikilias in his statement.

Source: AMPE