This year, 251 Greek beaches have been declared closed to any kind of building, including everything from hired sunbeds and umbrellas to temporary wooden structures.
The Greek Environment Ministry says the decision is aimed at strengthening the protection of beaches of special aesthetic, geomorphological and environmental importance, as well as preserving valuable habitats and the flora and fauna species that depend on them.
At the same time, it has increased the list of beaches included in the marine NATURA 2000 programme, which are now subject to a more stringent protection regime.
In these areas, the transfer of use of the seashore and the beach is not allowed, while interventions or activities that could alter their natural form or adversely affect their ecological functions are excluded.
This move is part of a broader strategy to limit uncontrolled tourism development and promote more sustainable management of the Greek coastline, at a time when pressures on coastal ecosystems are intensifying due to tourism development and the effects of climate change.
The list of beaches here (source in Greek)
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