Tourism and Sustainability
From Theory to Action
Komvos - Networks of Global Hellenism
Τhe initiative of the non-profit civil partnership Komvos – Networks of Global Hellenism on Tourism and Sustainability seeks to contribute to the development of a more mature, responsible and long-term sustainable model of tourism growth for Greece.
Tourism is one of the most important pillars of the Greek economy, regional development and the country’s international image. At the same time, it is now facing a new reality: the quality of the visitor experience, the resilience of destinations, the protection of natural and cultural assets, and the meaningful participation of local communities are now directly linked to sustainability.
At the heart of this approach is the transition from a general discussion about sustainability to applicable practices, partnerships, standards and examples that can be used by destinations, businesses, institutions and local communities.
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The significance of the initiative
Greece has unique comparative advantages: a natural environment of exceptional value, cultural continuity, a distinctive gastronomic identity, strong local traditions, human capital, and an international network of Greeks who can contribute knowledge, experience and access to good practices.
The new challenge is to connect these advantages with a tourism model that enhances quality, extends seasonality, protects destinations, promotes local production and creates lasting value for local communities.
Sustainability in tourism concerns the everyday functioning of a destination: the management of natural resources, the pressure on infrastructure, the relationship between visitors and residents, the connection with the local economy, the authenticity of the experience, and each place’s ability to evolve without losing its identity.
Komvos’ approach
Komvos approaches tourism as a field of cooperation between the economy, society, the environment, culture and innovation.
The initiative has a formative character. Its aim is to highlight good practices, strengthen dialogue between experts and institutions, encourage the adoption of responsible choices, and contribute to the development of a framework within which tourism growth can acquire greater depth, coherence and resilience.
Particular emphasis is placed on connecting tourism with gastronomy, local production, small businesses, cultural heritage and emerging trends that combine global reach with local authenticity. This approach is linked to the contemporary concept of glocalisation: the ability of a place to address an international audience while preserving its own distinctive identity.
Key Pillars
The initiative is developed around key pillars that reflect the critical parameters of sustainable tourism development:
Environmental responsibility and the protection of natural resources.
Destination resilience and the rational management of tourism pressure.
Connecting tourism with local production, gastronomy and small businesses.
Promoting cultural identity and authentic experiences.
Participation of local communities in shaping the tourism product.
Adoption of good practices by businesses, municipalities, institutions and organizations.
Networking with Greeks and philhellenes of the diaspora who have international experience in tourism, sustainability, destination development and communications.
From recognition to action
Komvos’ initiative includes the promotion of examples that demonstrate, in practice, the transition towards a more sustainable tourism model. Cases such as Tilos, Astypalaia and the Cyclades Preservation Fund show that innovation, environmental responsibility and local participation can create new narratives for Greek destinations.
At the same time, examples such as Tinos highlight the ability of a destination to evolve through gastronomy, local production, cooperation among local stakeholders and the cultivation of a more complex tourism identity.
Komvos uses these examples as a starting point for broader dialogue and practical mobilization. The recognition of good practices serves as a tool for learning, sharing experience and encouraging new initiatives.
Identity of the initiative
The initiative is introduced and coordinated by Elisabet Filippouli, who brings international experience in strategic communications, network-building and the promotion of issues that connect entrepreneurship, society and sustainable development.
The Advisory Committee of the initiative brings together distinguished individuals with experience in tourism, sustainability, the economy, local development, gastronomy, communications and the use of international networks:
Elizabeth Filippouli, initiator and coordinator of the initiative.
Vicky Pryce, economist with international experience in economic policy, development and public dialogue.
Anna Grimani, member of the Board of Directors of Komvos, with experience in communications, journalism and connecting institutional initiatives with wider audiences.
George Kourmouzis, with experience in tourism, entrepreneurship and destination development.
Costas Mitropoulos, with experience in economics, investments and strategic development.
Gianna Balafouti, with a significant contribution to the promotion of gastronomy, local production and the cultural dimension of food.
Marie-Athena Papathanasiou, with experience in entrepreneurship, networking and the support of development initiatives.
Eleni Skarveli, with experience in sustainability, tourism and institutional development.
Ioannis Spilanis, with extensive scientific and research experience in sustainable tourism, insularity and regional development.
The composition of the Advisory Committee reflects the core philosophy of Komvos: connecting people, knowledge and experience with the aim of generating applicable ideas that can strengthen Greece’s international footprint.
Tourism and Sustainability Conference
As part of the initiative, Komvos is planning the conference:
“Greece, Sustainability and Tourism – From Theory to Practice”
The conference will take place on October 6th 2026 and will serve as a meeting point for experts, representatives of institutions, market professionals, members of Komvos, and individuals with experience in tourism, regional development, sustainability, gastronomy, communications and social innovation.
The aim is to foster a substantive dialogue on the future of Greek tourism, with an emphasis on practical solutions, opportunities for cooperation, and the promotion of destinations and initiatives that can serve as examples.
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