Greek tourism sector faces sustainability issues

Significance The sector is key for the country’s economy, accounting for up to one-quarter of annual economic output. However, the growing number of visitors is exerting pressure on local infrastructure and population, while the increased frequency of heatwaves and wildfires is causing disruptions to the sector, raising concerns about its long-term sustainability. Impacts The government’s efforts to improve sustainability will focus on Athens and the most popular tourist islands first. Over-tourism will fuel social dissatisfaction of locals. Closer cooperation between regional and national authorities will be necessary to tackle issues stemming from over-tourism.