Within the framework of the “METRON Sustainable Tourism” initiative, a webinar entitled “ESG & Tourism: A Practical Guide for Tourism Businesses” was held on Friday, May 16.
Sustainable development is a key pillar of the strategy of SETE, INSETE and Marketing Greece. With the “METRON Sustainable Tourism” initiative as a starting point and with the assistance of specialized consultants in sustainability programs, SETE’s goal is to create appropriate conditions for the transition of tourism businesses towards sustainability.
Sustainable development helps tourism businesses to strengthen their resilience to climate change through rational resource management and the adaptation of their infrastructure to changing environmental conditions. It also reduces the operating costs of businesses in the medium term through energy savings, better waste management and the promotion of innovative solutions.
The webinar was divided into the following thematic sections:
Section 1: The impact of ESG on tourism: Exploring sustainable development obligations and business impact
Maria Tsiadi, CEO Impacta Consulting:
“ESG plays a crucial role in the transformation and resilience of the tourism sector in Greece. In addition to the obligations of the European CSRD Legislation, the Omnibus proposal, the importance of the supply chain and the requirements of financial institutions, reliable data collection on ESG criteria helps in the proper and efficient operation of businesses. Specifically, in tourism, the digital platform of the “METRON Sustainable Tourism” initiative of SETE is a valuable ally for tourism businesses in measuring and documenting sustainability.”
See the presentation here.
Section 2: Collecting sustainability data for an effective report
Sotiris Mylonas, Sustainability Consultant, MBA Civil Engineer:
“The documented collection of ESG data is the cornerstone of any sustainable strategy, especially in tourism. Without data, you cannot monitor your performance, nor make informed decisions. Through measurable and reliable information, transparency, compliance with the European and National institutional framework (CSRD / ESRS, Climate Law, HMA / HMAT, etc.), resilience and operational efficiency and continuity are enhanced.”
See the presentation here.
The coordination was undertaken by the General Director of SETE, Maria Gatsou, who underlined:
“There is a “window of opportunity of approximately two years” until the mandatory implementation of the new ESG frameworks. This period is critical. We can prepare organizationally, build the implementation mechanism, define responsibilities, start systematic recording, and invest in human resources and know-how. This investment, which in the short term requires time and resources, will allow us to be fully prepared and reap long-term benefits: greater competitiveness, improved international image, attraction of investments and strengthening the trust of all stakeholders. The transition to a more sustainable model is not just an obligation – it is a strategic choice that secures the future of Greek tourism.”
Watch the full video of the workshop below:
Source: sete.gr
