The discussion about the future of the built environment is gaining new depth, as sustainability ceases to be an option and establishes itself as a necessity. Alexandros Athanasoulas, President of the Sustainable Buildings Council Greece (SBC Greece) and CEO of Stirixis Group, tells Tornos News that “today, a sustainable green building is not a luxury, but a necessary condition for our prosperity and our sustainable future,” clearly framing the roadmap for the next phase of construction in the country.
The climate crisis is driving new design standards that redefine both housing and tourism. The transition to more efficient, healthy, and resilient buildings directly affects operating costs, quality of life, and property value. Mr. Athanasoulas emphasizes that “in housing, a green approach means a healthy and comfortable living environment, protection from extreme weather, lower monthly costs for each family, and higher property value, improving overall quality of life.”
The influence of sustainability is not limited to homes. The tourism sector is rapidly shifting toward green infrastructure that enhances the traveler experience. Hotels that adopt sustainable practices reduce their environmental footprint, increase competitiveness, and strengthen Greece’s international image. In his statement to Tornos News, Mr. Athanasoulas highlights that “green hotels provide equally unique, high-quality experiences to guests, reduce their environmental footprint, enhance Greece’s image as a sustainable destination, and contribute to tourism growth.”
The need for sustainable buildings has now become an economic criterion, not just an environmental one. Energy efficiency and smart design contribute to significant resource savings, create value for businesses, and reduce risks associated with extreme weather events. “A green building is directly linked to prosperity and economic sustainability and represents an investment that delivers long-term benefits for people, businesses, and society,” he notes.
The Sustainable Buildings Council Greece promotes practices that accelerate the transition to a construction model that addresses contemporary challenges holistically. Mr. Athanasoulas emphasizes in his statement that “at SBC Greece, we work toward a built environment where sustainability is the norm. Every green home or hotel brings us closer to a better future for all.”
The path toward a sustainable built environment is not merely a vision but a responsibility. The adoption of green standards that enhance health, functionality, and resilience in buildings shapes a new development model that directly affects tourism, the economy, and citizens’ quality of life. With a steady transition to sustainable infrastructure, Greece can strengthen both its national strategy and its profile as a modern destination investing in the future.
