We are in Drama, a destination with natural and cultural treasures.
Can you describe how the natural and cultural treasures of Drama (such as the Maara Cave, the springs of Agia Varvara, and the archaeological sites) can be utilized for the development of a sustainable tourism model?
Drama has a unique set of natural and cultural treasures that, if properly utilized, can form the basis for a sustainable tourism model, moving beyond mass tourism. This approach focuses on the quality of the experience, rather than quantity.
- The Maara Cave (Aggitis Springs), as a unique river cave, is a natural resource of global importance. For green development, it can be utilized as a center for geotourism and environmental education.
- Educational programs can be implemented for students and visitors about the geology and the sensitive ecosystem of the area.
- Protection & Management: Tourism around the cave must be strictly controlled to ensure the protection of the natural environment and the preservation of biodiversity.
- The Springs of Agia Varvara, in the heart of the city, constitute a unique urban aquatic park.
- The area hosts artistic events, exhibitions, and musical evenings that respect the environment.
- Promotion of activities such as hiking, cycling, and nature observation, which do not burden the ecosystem.
- Connecting visitors with local businesses, such as traditional cafes and restaurants that use local products, strengthening the local economy.
What challenges does the local community face for sustainable development, and how can the authorities contribute to overcoming them?
The local community of Drama, on its path towards a sustainable tourism model, faces a series of challenges, mainly due to a necessary change in mindset and practices. However, local authorities can play a decisive role in mitigating these issues.
- Lack of Information and Education One of the main challenges is the lack of information about what sustainable tourism truly means. Residents and business owners might view it as just another trend or something that does not directly concern them.
- The authorities can organize informational events, workshops, and seminars for residents and tourism professionals. Through these, the benefits of sustainability (economic, environmental, social) can be presented, and practical advice for their implementation can be offered.
- Financial Constraints and Resistance The initial investment in sustainable practices can seem prohibitive for small businesses (e.g., upgrading to energy-efficient technologies). This can lead to resistance to change.
- The authorities can create incentives and subsidy programs for businesses that adopt sustainable practices. They can also act as a link to funding tools, such as European programs, facilitating access to resources.
- Management of Infrastructure and Natural Resources An increase in tourist flow, even in sustainable tourism, can put pressure on existing infrastructure (such as waste management and roads) and threaten
natural resources (such as water and biodiversity).
- Local government must invest in the strategic planning of infrastructure. This includes improving the waste management system, protecting sensitive natural areas, and developing public transportation to reduce the environmental footprint.
- Lack of Coordination and Networking For sustainable development to be successful, there must be cooperation between tourism bodies, local businesses, farmers, cultural associations, and citizens. A lack of
coordination can undermine these efforts.
- The authorities can act as a catalyst and coordinator. They can create a permanent platform for dialogue where all interested parties can meet, exchange ideas, and plan joint actions. This will enhance collective spirit and a sense of community.
Can you tell us about sustainable practices that have been implemented in Drama?
- Sustainable Urban Development Plan The Municipality of Drama has implemented a comprehensive Sustainable Urban Development Plan within the framework of European programs (ESPA). This plan is not a
single action but a set of interventions aiming to improve residents’ quality of life and enhance the city’s environmental profile.
- A central project of the plan is the bioclimatic upgrade of public spaces. This includes extensive tree planting and the creation of green areas, especially in the vicinity of the Agia Varvara springs and the Municipal Garden. The goal is to lower the temperature, improve the microclimate, and increase biodiversity within the city.
- Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan The Municipality has invested in the design and implementation of a Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan, which aims to promote environmentally friendly modes of transportation.
- The plan gives priority to pedestrians and cyclists over cars, thereby reducing energy consumption, air pollution, and noise. This is achieved through the creation of new sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and the improvement of existing routes.
Both of these practices show that Drama is not limited to theoretical approaches but is moving forward with specific projects that connect urban development with environmental sustainability.
How can young people, as active citizens, contribute to the implementation of these sustainable practices?
The contribution of young people to the implementation of sustainable practices can happen at both an individual and a collective level. With their active participation, they can strengthen the efforts of the authorities and become a driving force for change.
- Promoting Sustainable Mobility Young people can adopt and promote the use of alternative means of transportation, actively contributing to the success of the Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP).
- Practical Implementation: By choosing to bike, walk, or use public transport for their daily commutes, they set an example and reduce their own environmental footprint.
- Awareness: They can create groups and organize events (e.g., bike rides) that will attract more people and make sustainable mobility a popular, everyday phenomenon.
- Participation in Educational and Volunteer Programs Participating in environmental programs is a direct way for young people to contribute.
- Volunteerism: By taking part in volunteer actions, such as tree planting, cleaning up parks or rivers, they can improve the city’s appearance and help protect the natural environment.
- Information: Leveraging their knowledge of technology and social media, they can create information campaigns about environmental challenges and raise awareness within the community.
- Supporting the Local Economy Young people can support the local economy and sustainability through their consumer choices.
- By choosing to buy products from local producers and businesses, they strengthen the economic viability of the area and reduce the transportation footprint.
- Also, through social media and personal initiatives, they can promote local cuisine and traditional products of Drama, attracting visitors who are looking for authentic experiences.
With their daily choices, volunteerism, and use of technology, young people can become the most powerful ambassadors for sustainability and shape the future of tourism in Drama.