GSTC: New Greece Working Group to Advance Sustainable Tourism Practices

The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) recently announced the formation of a new working group in Greece, which will focus on advancing sustainable tourism practices in the country.

According to GSTC, the initiative aligns with the Council’s mission to promote its criteria, the global standards for sustainability in travel and tourism.

The newly established Greece Working Group will work closely with public and private sector stakeholders to foster sustainable tourism in one of Europe’s most visited countries. The group aims to support local destinations, businesses, and communities in adopting best sustainable practices that preserve Greece’s natural and cultural heritage.

Dr. Ioannis Pappas, GSTC Board Member & Director for the Mediterranean Region was named Chair of the Greece Working Group and Spyridon Kagkas, Community Manager Organization, Athens Development and Destination Management Agency (ADDMA), Vice Chair.

“As Chair of the GSTC Greece Working Group, I am thrilled to witness the formalization of this initiative, marking a new chapter for sustainable tourism in Greece,” said Dr. Pappas, adding that since 2015, GSTC has been deeply involved in promoting sustainability across the country.

“Now, with this dedicated working group, we will intensify our efforts in raising awareness, providing training, and supporting certification processes for both the public and private sectors.”

According to Dr. Pappas, Greece’s rich heritage and natural beauty deserve to be preserved through responsible tourism practices. “This group will ensure that our years of experience translate into real, impactful progress for Greek tourism,” he said.

The GSTC Working Groups serve as a platform for dialogue and knowledge sharing among stakeholders, including government bodies, tourism boards, hotels, tour operators, and community organizations. GSTC’s regional working groups play a vital role in supporting the global sustainability movement, and this new Greece Working Group will further strengthen these efforts in Southern Europe.