Zakynthos environmental groups challenge coastal management

Environmental and civic groups in Zakynthos, including ‘Clean Waters Zakynthos’ and the Association of Civil Servants Pensioners, have formally intervened with the Zakynthos Land Service to demand transparency regarding coastal management.

The groups submitted documents addressing several critical issues, specifically the redefinition of shoreline and beach boundaries in Bouka Tragaki and Kryoneri, as well as the granting of permits for umbrella and chair rentals in the Kalamaki sand dunes area.

In Bouka Tragaki, concerns were raised regarding the impact of commercial exploitation on the natural environment and public access. The groups questioned why a geologist did not participate in the committee's assessment, despite reports of extensive land erosion in the area. They further questioned why findings of erosion led to a restriction of the beach zone to 10 meters rather than increased land protection.

The associations warn that current practices lead to the ‘cementation of coasts’, loss of public access to the sea, and irreversible damage to the island's sensitive ecosystems and quality of life.