Tourism SMEs in Cyprus have successfully completed their sustainability journey under the EU-funded I-STARS project. The Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve) announced on Wednesday that 25 small and medium-sized enterprises in the tourism sector have made significant strides toward environmental sustainability.
Tourism smes: Support and Funding for Sustainable Practices
With a total of €138,878 allocated to the participating businesses, Keve facilitated targeted funding, technical guidance, and personalised support to help these enterprises design and implement effective actions aimed at enhancing their environmental performance.
“Through targeted funding, technical guidance, and personalised support, these businesses have taken significant steps toward becoming more sustainable, resilient, and competitive in the green transition of the tourism sector,” the chamber stated.
Implementing Effective Sustainability Strategies
The SMEs engaged in a variety of initiatives throughout their sustainability journey. These included the development of tailored sustainability strategy action plans focused on their unique business models. Participants conducted food waste audits, leading to measures that reduced waste and improved resource management.
Energy audits also played a crucial role, helping businesses identify opportunities for energy savings and the adoption of greener practices. By aligning with international good practices, participants worked towards achieving sustainability certifications, which not only improved their operational standards but also enhanced their marketability.
Innovative Approaches to Responsible Tourism
Beyond operational improvements, the SMEs introduced innovative and responsible tourism measures that involved their staff, suppliers, and visitors. This community-focused approach to sustainability fostered a culture of environmental awareness and responsibility among all stakeholders.
Keve remarked, “These achievements demonstrate that even small businesses can make measurable progress in sustainability when empowered with the right tools, support, and incentives.”
Diverse Participation Across the Tourism Sector
The Cyprus-based SMEs that completed the I-STARS Sustainability Journey encompass a wide range of businesses including restaurants, villas, resorts, hotels, and travel agencies. Notable participants included:
- Adelfoi Antoniou Estiatorio
- AD Philippou
- Aliathon Resort
- Alltime Tourist Complex Ltd (St Raphael Resort & Marina)
- Amathus Corporation (both Amathus Travel and other services)
- Anemi Brands Ltd (Maison Anemi)
- Azelco Ltd (King Jason Protaras)
- Bella Napa Hotels (Amarande Hotel)
- Bricona Holding Ltd (Amanti made for two Hotels Ayia Napa-Cyprus)
- C.A. China Spice Restaurants Ltd (Anama Restaurant)
- Creative Tours
- Domniki Hotel Apts Ltd (Louis Infinity Blu Hotel Protaras)
- Ioannides Old Limassol Restaurant
- Kanika Hotels Ltd (Alexander the Great Beach Hotel)
- Louis Group Ltd (Louis Travel)
- Melpo Antia Hotels Ltd (Melpo Antia Hotel & Suites)
- M. F. Oros Maxaira Ltd (Oros Maxaira)
- P. Charalambous & Sons (Paliomonastiro Weddings and Events)
- Pipis Hotels Ltd (Alasia Hotel)
- Somerstown (Amavi Made for Two Hotels)
- Top Kinisis Travel Public Ltd (Top Kinisis)
- Vassos Ioannou Ltd (Nissi Plage Hotel & Spa)
- Venus Beach Hotel
- Winestories (Zambartas Wineries)
Inspiring Stories from Grantees
To celebrate the achievements of these enterprises, Keve has released five short videos showcasing the inspiring stories of selected grantees who benefited from the I-STARS Grant Scheme. These videos are available on the chamber’s YouTube channel, illustrating how local tourism businesses embraced sustainability, improved their operations, and strengthened their market positioning.
Expanding the Reach of the I-STARS Initiative
The I-STARS initiative, funded by the EU, aims to empower tourism SMEs across five island regions: Cyprus, Greece, Ireland, Italy, and Spain. By offering grants, training, tools, and tailored consultancy, the project is designed to facilitate innovation, reduce environmental footprints, and promote responsible business practices that contribute to the long-term resilience of the European tourism ecosystem.
As the tourism industry continues to evolve, the successful completion of this sustainability programme by Cypriot SMEs marks an important step towards a greener future for the sector, showcasing the potential of small businesses to lead in sustainable practices.
