In 2024, Greece experienced a notable increase in tourism revenue, with figures reaching 21.7 billion euros (£18 billion), up from 20.6 billion euros (£17 billion) in 2023. This 5.3% surge marked a significant recovery for the country after the setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Before the pandemic, in 2019, Greece had earned 18.2 billion euros (£15 billion) from tourism, attracting 31.3 million visitors. Tourism has always been a critical sector for Greece, contributing more than a quarter of its GDP. The sector also supports roughly two million locals, who depend on it for their livelihoods.

However, while the numbers indicate a robust recovery, the increase in tourism has come with its own set of challenges. Anti-tourism sentiments have begun to gain traction in various parts of the country, most notably in Athens, where protests erupted in May. Banners reading “Tourists go home” and “No Tourists No Hipsters” highlighted the growing frustration of residents with the overwhelming influx of visitors. These protests signal a shift in local attitudes toward the sustainability of Greece’s tourism model and raise significant concerns about the future of the industry.

The Need for Sustainable Tourism Practices

The Greek ombudsman’s report, published in June 2024, became the first of its kind since the institution’s establishment two decades ago. In the report, there were strong warnings about the environmental pressures placed on the country due to unchecked tourism. Among the primary concerns were the increasing strain on water supplies that are essential for both locals and tourists. These water resources are necessary not only for daily consumption but also for swimming pools and water parks that are popular with visitors.

The ombudsman emphasized that Greece’s economy is highly reliant on tourism, making it imperative for the country to find a sustainable balance in its tourism practices. The report also cautioned against further degradation of tourist destinations, urging that the country’s natural beauty and resources should not be squandered due to overdevelopment and overexploitation. The rapid growth of tourism in certain areas has led to significant environmental damage, which, if left unchecked, could jeopardize the future viability of the sector.

Measures to Regulate the Tourism Boom

In response to these concerns, Greece has started taking measures to regulate tourism in some of its most popular destinations. To curb the growing impact of mass tourism, Athens introduced a 12-month moratorium on new short-term rental registrations in several key neighbourhoods. Areas such as Kolonaki, Koukaki, Pangrati, and Exarchia have been affected by this policy, which aims to prevent the unchecked growth of platforms like Airbnb. In fact, for the first time in 2024, short-term rental properties outnumbered hotel rooms in Greece, creating tensions within local communities and contributing to the housing crisis in some regions.

Additionally, as part of an effort to control overcrowding during peak summer months, Greece has implemented a new €20 (£16) levy for tourists visiting heavily frequented spots, like Santorini. This fee will be introduced in the summer of 2024 as a way to manage the pressures of tourism saturation and encourage a more balanced and sustainable flow of visitors.

The Growing Discontent of Local Residents

The surge in tourism has had noticeable effects on local residents, many of whom are feeling the strain of rapid development and increased visitor numbers. A Mykonos resident, Chrysiida Dimoulidou, expressed her frustration in an interview, stating that she was considering selling her home and relocating due to the constant rise in tourism and construction projects. She noted that Mykonos, once a charming and peaceful place, was rapidly losing its appeal as it became overdeveloped. This sentiment reflects a broader dissatisfaction among locals, who feel that the growth of tourism is eroding the unique character of their towns and cities.

For many locals, the changes brought about by mass tourism have become a source of stress and concern. Increased construction to accommodate visitors, higher rental prices, and the loss of local culture and traditions are among the primary complaints that residents have voiced. The situation is further exacerbated by the environmental pressures caused by the influx of tourists, which has sparked debates about the long-term sustainability of the tourism industry in Greece.

Global Impact and the Future of Travel

The situation in Greece highlights a growing global trend: the need for more sustainable tourism practices. As the world’s most popular destinations experience a boom in tourism, local communities are increasingly burdened by the influx of visitors. From overcrowded landmarks to environmental degradation, the impact of mass tourism is being felt across the globe. Greece’s experience serves as a cautionary tale for other nations that rely heavily on tourism revenue, urging them to consider the long-term effects of uncontrolled growth in the sector.

Travelers, too, are beginning to feel the effects of this shift. As destinations like Greece introduce new fees and restrictions to manage overcrowding, it’s clear that the tourism landscape is changing. While some travelers may find these measures inconvenient, they are necessary to ensure the preservation of local cultures, environments, and resources. The industry must evolve to prioritize sustainability and balance economic growth with the well-being of local communities.

The Road Ahead for Greece and the Global Tourism Industry

As Greece grapples with the challenges of maintaining its tourism-driven economy while protecting its natural resources and local culture, the global tourism industry faces a turning point. Sustainable tourism practices will be essential to safeguard the future of many popular destinations, ensuring that both visitors and residents can continue to enjoy the unique charms of these places.

The path forward will likely involve greater regulation, more responsible travel practices, and a collective effort to support local communities in ways that benefit both tourism and the environment. The global tourism industry must learn from Greece’s example and embrace a more sustainable model, one that ensures the long-term health and prosperity of both the sector and the destinations it serves.

The post How Can Greece’s Eighteen Billion Pound Tourism Boom Drive Economic Growth While Tackling the Rising Overtourism Challenges Faced by Locals? appeared first on Travel And Tour World.