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Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Greece

Protected Areas

The National Marine Park of Alonnisos Northern Sporades (NMPANS) safeguards endangered Mediterranean monk seals, bottlenose dolphins, and diverse marine life.

Waste Management

Alonnisos has recycling bins for plastics, paper, and glass. Use these responsibly and avoid littering, especially on beaches.

Water Conservation

Water is a precious resource. Take shorter showers, turn off taps when not in direct use, and reuse towels in your accommodation.

Eco-Friendly Practices

Your actions contribute to conservation efforts within the National Marine Park.

Eco-Accommodation

Seek accommodations highlighting sustainable practices. These may include solar power, water conservation, and sourcing local produce.

Sustainable Stays

  • Choose properties with sustainable practices. Consider Ecobnb for eco-friendly bookings.
  • Support places using solar power.
  • Reuse towels and conserve water.
  • Sourcing local produce.

Responsible Tours

Pick tour operators that adhere strictly to Marine Park regulations and stress responsible wildlife viewing.

Ethical Exploration

  • Select operators adhering to park rules.
  • No disturbance to monk seals or marine life.
  • Operators informing visitors on park rules.
  • The Marine Park Information Center will guide you.

Cultural Preservation

The island strives to preserve its traditional way of life and architecture, notably in the restoration of Chora.

Support Local Heritage

  • Aid Chora's restoration efforts.
  • Visit local festivals (panigiria).
  • Purchase authentic local crafts.
  • Show appreciation for the island's historical sites and traditions.

Respectful Interactions

Be polite and courteous in your interactions with locals. Learning a few basic Greek phrases displays respect and can aid warmer exchanges.

Etiquette Tips

  • Be polite in interactions.
  • Learning basic Greek phrases.
  • Ask permission before photographing individuals.
  • Dress modestly at religious sites.

Eco-Conscious Choices

Carbon Offsets

Consider offsetting flight emissions through reputable programs. Terrapass is an option.

Learn More

Sustainable Gear

Support brands that offer sustainable outdoor gear, like Patagonia. Also check Package Free Shop for reusable products.

Shop Eco-Friendly

Wildlife Respect

When on boat tours, maintain a respectful distance from wildlife. Never attempt to approach or feed marine animals.

Economic & Ethical Impact

Your spending choices directly bear on the local economy of Alonnisos. Aid the island’s community.

Support Local Economy

Support local, family-run tavernas, guesthouses, and small shops. These businesses directly hire island residents and put money back into the local economy.

Local Impact

  • Choose small-scale accommodations over large resorts.
  • Dine at family-run tavernas.
  • Local businesses are employers for island residents.
  • Prioritize local tour operators for boat trips and rentals.

Ethical Shopping

Seek locally produced goods like Alonnisos honey, local olive oil, and artisan crafts. This keeps traditional island livelihoods going.

Authentic Purchases

  • Support traditional island livelihoods.
  • Ensure souvenirs are sustainably and ethically sourced.
  • Avoid contributing to environmental damage.
  • Look for fair trade options where possible.

Ethical Considerations

Be aware of your impact as a tourist. Avoid activities that exploit animals or local communities.

Responsible Tourism

Inform yourself about ethical tourism practices and their value.

Charitable Contributions

Consider donating to local environmental organizations, like MOm (Hellenic Society for the Study and Protection of the Monk Seal).

Ethical Choices

Your contribution reaches legitimate causes directly aiding the island and its wildlife.

Responsible Travel

Your choices contribute to preserving Alonnisos's natural beauty and supporting its community.