[Shutterstock]
A citizens’ movement on Kos is calling for a suspension of new hotel construction, warning that the island has exceeded its capacity. The initiative, “Sustainable Kos,” has gathered 1,600 signatures and secured support from the municipal council.
In a letter to government officials, residents highlight the strain from rapid tourism growth, citing a 43% rise in hotel beds since 2009 and a 352% surge in five-star accommodations. With over 1.5 million annual visitors, they argue, unchecked development threatens the island’s environment and resources.
A 2009 study warned that exceeding a 40% increase in beds would lead to major issues. That threshold has now been surpassed, making Kos’ tourism model unsustainable, according to activist Christos Bardas.
The municipality plans to update the study, but campaigners want a moratorium until a new zoning plan is in place. They urge the Environment Ministry to act before overdevelopment causes irreversible damage.