The launch of an initiative by the Rhodes Hoteliers Association in collaboration with the South Aegean Region, to address coastal erosion in the areas of Ixia, Ialyssos and Kremasti, was announced on Monday, October 20.
The initiative was announced at a press conference held by the Association at its offices with the participation of the Governor of the South Aegean, Mr. Giorgos Hadjimarkos, and the President of the Rhodes Hoteliers Association, Mr. Yiannis Papavassiliou.
The Rhodes Hoteliers Association, within the framework of its corporate social responsibility and its role as the island’s main investment and development body, undertook the financing of the preliminary study of the project, which includes the technical documentation and the proposal of integrated solutions for the protection and restoration of the coastline.
“This is a substantial initiative, which proves that the hotel industry of Rhodes — the largest employer and investor on the island — is not limited to its business activity, but actively invests in the protection of the natural environment, the quality of life of the residents and the sustainable development of the local community,” the Association points out in a statement.
The study, which will be prepared by the specialized office “Rogan & Associates”, covers approximately 12 kilometers of coastline from Kato Petras to Kremasti.
During the press conference, the Regional Governor of the South Aegean expressed his full support for the effort and pledged to proceed immediately with the implementation of the project, from environmental licensing to its financing and construction, as soon as the study is completed. At the same time, he emphasized that this initiative is an example of social responsibility and congratulated the Rhodes Hoteliers Association.
The President of the Rhodes Hoteliers Association, Mr. Yiannis Papavassiliou, emphasized that this specific initiative “does not only concern tourism businesses, but the entire society of Rhodes. The restoration of the coasts will create free and accessible spaces for everyone, offering a gift to the island and its residents.”
Mr. Papavassiliou warmly thanked the hoteliers of the area for their support and financing of the study, making special mention of Mr. Vasilis Karagiannis, who, continuing the work of his father, the late Mr. Giorgos Karagiannis, consistently and decisively coordinated this new effort.
Finally, the President noted that this action reflects in the most clear way the social sensitivity and developmental responsibility of the hotel industry of Rhodes, proving that tourism is not only an economic activity, but a force for progress and contribution for the island.
