Tilos Island Wins Prestigious Awards for Sustainable Business Initiative

Tilos Mayor Maria Kamma (fourth from right) at the European Enterprise Promotion Awards ceremony. Photo source: European Commission

The island of Tilos in the Dodecanese received two prestigious awards at the European Enterprise Promotion Awards (EEPA) for its innovative initiative supporting sustainable businesses, reinforcing its position as a leading example of eco-friendly enterprise development.

Named “Just Go Zero”, the program was designed by Tilos Municipality to develop solutions that promote the circular economy and mobilize citizens and businesses to adopt circular models of production and consumption to achieve a viable future. South Aegean Region and the economy solutions company Polygreen support the initiative.

Thanks to the program’s initiatives, Tilos received the gold award in the “Supporting the Digital Transition” category and the prestigious Grand Jury Award.

“With “Just Go Zero Tilos”, our island has captured the world’s attention, showcasing that even the remotest corner of Greece can lead and inspire an entire continent through the collective efforts of local authorities and every resident,” said Mayor Maria Kamma.

Photo source: Just Go Zero

Through the groundbreaking program, Tilos has set new benchmarks in the circular economy, achieving 100 percent waste diversion from landfills, 93 percent recycling, and the active engagement of every resident, business, and school.

The European Commission recognized these achievements, describing the island as a “beacon of sustainability” and a reference point for Europe, noting that the commendable efforts of this small island have inspired countries and communities to pursue sustainable solutions for the future.

“This award is a call to action for all of Greece to adopt sustainability. Our journey is far from over – it’s only the beginning,” Kamma added.

The European Enterprise Promotion Awards reward those who promote entrepreneurship and small business at the national, regional and local level. Since 2006, over 4.400 projects have entered the awards and together they have supported the creation of well over 11.000 new companies.