Within the framework of the European project LIFE-IP CEI-Greece – “Implementation of the Circular Economy in Greece”, which is coordinated by the Ministry of Environement & Energy, another cycle of distance learning (E-learning) was carried out under the title: “Circular Economy for Tourism Professionals”. The comprehensive training program is implemented by the Network of Sustainable Islands (DAFNI), the Green Fund, Harokopio University, the Ecological Recycling Society, Terra Nova, the Ministry of Environment and Energy, and the Hellenic Recycling Agency.
On Wednesday, April 1, the final webinar took place, featuring an engaging panel discussion on the topic: “Challenges & Opportunities for the Implementation of the Circular Economy in the Tourism Sector.” The panel included Ms. Katia Lazaridi, Professor at Harokopio University; Mr. Dimitris Chomatidis, Environmental Engineer from the Green Fund; Mr. Andreas Sotiropoulos, Environmental Scientist at Terra Nova; Mr. Stavros Karagiannis, Electronics Engineer from the Ecological Recycling Society; and Mr. Efstathios Kontos, Secretary General of the Municipality of Tilos. The discussion was moderated by the CEO of DAFNI, Mr. Kostas Komninos.
The discussion highlighted the main challenges faced by the tourism sector in adopting Circular Economy practices, such as seasonality affecting the return on investment, increased supply chain costs—especially in island regions—the lack of financial incentives and reliable data, as well as the need to shift organizational culture and enhance workforce skills. At the same time, significant opportunities for tourism businesses were emphasized, including the reduction of operational costs through waste prevention actions, the strengthening of competitiveness and reputation, the attraction of environmentally conscious visitors, and the development of innovative practices that enhance the resilience and sustainability of the sector.
This educational initiative aims to promote the principles of the Circular Economy and to transfer know-how from the project’s pilot applications, through free distance learning for participants from all over Greece. More than 300 tourism professionals from across the country attended the second cycle of the training program, taking advantage of the opportunity for high-quality, free training on waste management and the implementation of Circular Economy actions in hospitality and food service businesses.
The next E-learning cycle, “Circular Economy for Educators,” will take place from May 6 to June 17, 2026.
More information is available here.
The integrated project “LIFE-IP CEI-Greece – Implementation of the Circular Economy in Greece” aims to contribute to the implementation of the National Waste Management Plan, the National Waste Prevention Program, and the National Strategy for the Circular Economy. The project promotes a new approach to waste management based on the principles of the circular economy, adopting practices and behavioral changes to extend product life cycles, convert waste into resources, and effectively implement the legislative framework on waste. The project is coordinated by the Ministry of Environment and Energy and is implemented in collaboration with 19 strategic partners.
Read here the Press Release
