The Special Spatial Planning Framework for Tourism is entering the final stretch, with a clear orientation towards sustainable development, the resilience of destinations and the safeguarding of the country’s natural and cultural heritage.
In a broad meeting held at the Ministry of Environment and Energy, with the participation of the Minister of Environment and Energy, Mr. Stavros Papastavros, the Minister of Tourism, Ms. Olga Kefalogianni, the Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Environment and Energy, Mr. Nikos Tagaras, the Secretary General of the Natural Environment & Waters, Mr. Petros Varelidis, the Secretary General of Spatial Planning and Urban Environment, Mr. Efthimios Bakoyannis, and the Secretary General of Tourism Policy and Development, Ms. Vasia Koutsoukou, emphasis was placed on the new philosophy of the framework.
The central axis of the Special Spatial Planning Framework for Tourism is the transition to a tourism model with a lower environmental footprint, with rational management of natural resources and protection of biodiversity. At the same time, the development of modern and sustainable infrastructures is promoted, the strengthening of organized forms of zoning with clear environmental specifications, as well as the acceleration of transparent and predictable licensing procedures.
Particular reference was made to the importance of spatial balancing of tourism activity, with the aim of reducing pressures on saturated areas and highlighting new, alternative and thematic destinations. The diversification of the tourism product, combined with quality and sustainability, is a key priority of the new strategy.
Messrs. Kefalogiannis and Papastavrou underlined that the presentation of the Joint Ministerial Decision is expected in early April, with the aim of completing the process and signing the Joint Ministerial Decision in May.
The new framework aspires to be a long-term planning tool, combining economic development with environmental protection and social cohesion, laying solid foundations for a resilient and sustainable tourism future.
Source: ypen.gov.gr