Environmental activists have praised the decision to halt the construction of a five-star hotel at “Moon Beach” on Milos, Greece, due to the project’s failure to meet legal and environmental standards. The local government revoked the building license, citing incomplete approvals and public protests against the development. Known for its stunning landscapes, “Moon Beach” is a key tourist attraction, and the decision reflects growing concerns about unchecked construction in the Cycladic Islands, where around 50 hotels are currently being built.
Activists, including Dimitris Vayanos from Save IOS, argue that while this halt is a positive development, it represents just a small step amid ongoing pressures from investors and developers impacting the islands’ ecology. With Greece attracting record tourism numbers—36.1 million last year—concerns about sustainability and environmental degradation are increasing.
Experts emphasize the urgent need for more robust legal frameworks to protect these vulnerable ecosystems. The WWF Greece’s Demetres Caraveras warned that the Milos case is emblematic of a broader issue facing many Greek islands, where rapid construction threatens the unique landscapes and cultural heritage. Residents and activists have begun to mobilize more effectively, although significant challenges remain in curbing development pressures across the region.
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