Authors: Panagiota Dionysopoulou, Evangelia Kasimati, Vasiliki Xirokosta

Title: The Environmental Dimension in the European Union and the Management and Promotion Policies of Sustainable Tourism Development in the Greek Area

Abstract

This study examines the link between the environment and the tourism industry, focusing on the development of sustainable tourism practices and the implementation of environmental policies in Greece. The research investigates the attitudes and preferences of hotel guests towards environmental initiatives and sustainability practices in the hospitality sector.

The study begins by exploring the definition and historical development of tourism, highlighting the external environmental factors that influence the industry, including economic, cultural, political, institutional, technological, and environmental dimensions. It further analyzes the effects of tourism development on the environment, examining both positive and negative impacts.

The international environmental policy framework is examined, with a particular focus on the United Nations Environment and the environmental policy of the European Union. The European Green Deal is highlighted as a significant initiative promoting environmental sustainability.

Sustainable tourism development is explored, encompassing the conceptual definition of sustainable tourism and its alignment with the principles of sustainable development. The Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria (GSTC) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are discussed as guiding frameworks for sustainable tourism practices.

The study then delves into environmental policy in Greece, discussing the long-term evolution of environmental policy formulation and the key organizations involved in tourism policy. Actions for transitioning to green tourism development are explored, emphasizing social, economic, cultural, and environmental sustainability, digital transformation, and sustainable behavior in the tourism sector.

The research methodology employed in this study involves data collection through a questionnaire. The questionnaire covers various aspects, including participants' demographic information, their observations and opinions regarding environmental policies and initiatives in hotels, the importance of such practices, willingness to pay for sustainable accommodations, familiarity with environmental certifications, and opinions on transparency and corporate commitments to sustainability.

The findings of the questionnaire indicate positive attitudes towards environmental policies and sustainability initiatives in the hospitality industry. Participants expressed a desire for hotels to transparently implement and communicate their environmental practices. Many participants considered environmental initiatives when selecting hotels, showing a willingness to pay more for sustainable accommodations and a likelihood to recommend hotels with strong environmental commitments.

The study concludes by highlighting the importance of renewable energy sources, waste reduction, responsible consumption, and other sustainable practices based on participants' suggestions. The research provides valuable insights into customer preferences and behaviors related to sustainability in the hotel sector, contributing to the understanding of the role of environmental policies in promoting sustainable tourism development.

Key Words: Tourism industry, Environmental policies, Sustainable tourism, Hospitality sector, Customer preferences, Sustainability initiatives