Navigating Sustainable Features: A Comparative Analysis of Sustainable Tourism in Santorini, Mykonos, and Paros

Angelos Ntalakos (), Konstantinos Skagias, Dimitrios Belias and Ioannis Rossidis
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Angelos Ntalakos: Department of Business Administration, University of Thessaly, Geopolis, 41500 Larissa, Greece
Konstantinos Skagias: HACC.NY Mykonos Based for Aegean Islands, 84600 Mykonos, Greece
Dimitrios Belias: Department of Business Administration, University of Thessaly, Geopolis, 41500 Larissa, Greece
Ioannis Rossidis: School of Social Sciences, Hellenic Open University, 26335 Patra, Greece

Tourism and Hospitality, 2025, vol. 6, issue 4, 1-33

Abstract: The islands of the Cyclades (located in the South Aegean Sea in Greece) are one of the most famous summer destinations worldwide. Every year, millions of Greek and foreign travelers visit the Cyclades to enjoy the islands’ dazzling light and beautiful crystal blue waters. The substantial increase in tourist arrivals has presented significant challenges to the islands, notably regarding sustainable infrastructure and consumer practices. Limited resources, especially water and energy, coupled with waste management issues, pose considerable pressure on the environment and local communities. This research paper investigates the facilities that promote the Cyclades islands (such as Mykonos, Santorini, and Paros) as an ecologically viable destination, analyzing the problems that arise during the adoption of sustainability. Data were retrieved from academic databases and publicly accessible sources, covering initiatives implemented between 2019 and 2025. The comparative analysis reveals distinct sustainability approaches: Santorini employs regulatory, infrastructure-heavy solutions, including cruise visitor caps (8000/day) and desalination capacity expansion; Mykonos relies predominantly on private sector initiatives despite experiencing a 5.8% decline in international arrivals; Paros demonstrates community-driven approaches, leading plastic reduction efforts through the “Clean Blue Paros” initiative. Key challenges persist across all islands, including water consumption doubling since 2020, waste increases of 350% during peak season, and tensions between economic growth and cultural preservation. The findings indicate no single blueprint for sustainable tourism development, emphasizing the need for destination-specific strategies combining policy intervention, technological innovation, and community engagement.

Keywords: sustainability; preservation; Cyclades Islands; tourism industry (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Z3 Z30 Z31 Z32 Z33 Z38 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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