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Find out the answer here! À lire A submerged paradise island: 150 tourists for one resident, a precarious balance |
The Cyclades, these Greek islands with their captivating charm, are today faced with a formidable trap: mass tourism. Between environmental preservation, protection of cultural heritage and authentic immersion, the crucial question arises: how to prevent this jewel of the Mediterranean from sinking under the incessant influx of visitors? Let’s dive together into the heart of this complex issue to understand the issues at stake.
The Cyclades at the crossroads: between tourist influx and preservation #
For several years, the Greece is experiencing an unprecedented tourist influx. In 2023, the country attracted more than 32 million visitors, generating more than 20 billion euros in revenue. Among the most popular destinations, Cyclades islands – like Mykonos, Santorini, Paros and Antiparos – stand out. However, this growing popularity raises crucial questions about the sustainability of this tourism model.
Overtourism: a scourge for the Greek islands #
THE overtourism has serious consequences for the Cyclades islands. Small islands, such as Mykonos which sees its population increase exponentially in summer, are under enormous pressure in terms of resource management. We observe difficulties in particular in:
- Waste Management
- Availability of water and electricity
- Traffic jams and infrastructure congestion
- Uncontrolled town planning
- The surge in real estate prices
These problems are exacerbated by seasonal population fluctuation, which sees the islands empty out of season, depriving residents of essential services.
À lire near Grenoble, this lake with turquoise waters is renowned as one of the jewels of France
Between economic dependence and preservation of the ecosystem #
Tourism represents nearly 25% of Greek GDP, and one in four jobs depends on it. This increased economic importance makes the management of overtourism even more complicated for the government. Indeed, restricting tourist influx could harm a significant part of the local population who depend on this activity for their livelihood.
The challenges of a sustainable future for the Cyclades #
In addition to economic and social issues, global warming poses an additional threat. The Cyclades, like other Greek islands, are increasingly exposed to fires devastating. Last summer the island of Rhodes was particularly affected, a situation that was repeated this year in the surroundings of Athens and other islands like Chios and Kos.
Faced with these challenges, local and national authorities are called upon to implement more robust prevention and risk management policies. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis stressed the importance of the contribution of all citizens to fire prevention, an essential measure for safeguarding the fragile ecosystems of the islands.
Responsible travel: hope for the future #
Visitors too can play a crucial role in preserving these jewels of the Mediterranean. Adopt practices of sustainable tourism and respecting local resources are essential to ensure a balance between tourist discovery and environmental protection.
In conclusion, while Greece benefits economically from this tourist influx, it is imperative to find solutions to prevent the overtourism does not end up destroying what makes the Cyclades attractive. A balance must be found between the economic needs of residents and the preservation of their living environment, so that these islands continue to be dream destinations for future generations.
