DiaNEOsis Looks to Develop Alternative Tourism in Natura 2000 Areas

Photo source: diaNEOsis

Research and policy institute diaNEOsis recently signed a memorandum of cooperation with the Ministries of Tourism and Environment, and the Natural Environment and Climate Change Agency (NECCA) with the aim to promote alternative forms of tourism in areas of the Natura 2000 network in Greece.

According to an announcement, under the memorandum diaNEOsis will take action to highlight the significance of the Natura 2000 protected sites and promote alternative tourism in these areas.

This will be achieved through the implementation of an upgraded public policy, as well as scientific documentation and support, since during the last years, with the rising demand for alternative forms of tourism such as ecotourism, rural and adventure tourism, these protected areas have become a point of attraction for visitors from Greece and abroad.

“Leisure activities can bring environmental, economic and social benefits but also significantly affect the ecosystem and the landscape. In order to protect and promote these areas, we need an integrated plan for the overall management and transportation of visitors, in accordance with European and international good practices,” diaNEOsis said.

Furthermore, the institute will conduct a study on the “National Strategic Plan for the Organization and Development of Tourism in the Areas of the Natura 2000 Network”. The study will be exclusively funded by diaNEOsis and its conclusions will be incorporated in the public policy and operational actions of the collaborating Ministries and NECCA.

The study will also be published on dianeosis.org.

Deputy Tourism Minister Sofia Zacharaki (left) and Deputy Environment Minister Giorgos Amyras (center). Photo source: @Giorgos Amyras

DiaNEOsis presented the memorandum during a press event held in Mikro Papigo in Ionnina, Epirus, on World Environment Day on June 5, attended by Deputy Minister of Environment and Energy George Amyras and Deputy Tourism Minister Sofia Zacharaki.