kathimerini.gr
Climate Change to Critically Impact Greek Tourism in Coming Decades
A study by the University of Ioannina predicts a significant negative impact on Greek tourism due to rising temperatures and drought, with the most drastic changes expected within the next decade; the study used three climate scenarios and examined the Holiday Climate Conditions Index (HCI) for urban and coastal areas from 1981 to 2023.
- What are the key findings of the study regarding the impact of climate change on Greek tourism in the next 50 years?
- A new study published in Theoretical and Applied Climatology reveals that Greece's tourism sector will be significantly impacted by increasingly high temperatures and drought in the coming years. The study, conducted by University of Ioannina researchers, analyzed climate data from 1981-2023 and projected future conditions under three climate change scenarios.
- How do the three climate change scenarios considered in the study differ in their projected impact on tourism in Greece?
- The study used the Holiday Climate Conditions Index (HCI) to assess the suitability of Greece's climate for tourism. Even under the most optimistic scenario, the HCI shows a decrease, particularly in June. Under the pessimistic scenario, urban areas will face marginal conditions, while coastal areas will see a decline in suitability.
- What adaptation measures should Greece prioritize to mitigate the negative impacts of climate change on its tourism sector?
- The researchers highlight that the most significant decrease in the HCI is expected in the next decade, emphasizing the urgent need for adaptation measures. The study identifies major urban centers like Thessaloniki and Athens, along with areas in Western Greece, as particularly vulnerable, with potential implications for the length of the tourist season and the types of tourism offered.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing emphasizes the negative impacts of climate change on Greek tourism, using strong words like "catastrophically affect" and "dramatic decrease." The headline and introduction immediately highlight the negative conclusions of the study. This emphasis could alarm readers and overshadow potential mitigation strategies or adaptation efforts.
Language Bias
The article uses strong, emotionally charged language such as "catastrophically affect," "dramatic decrease," and "alarming projections." While accurate reporting of the study's findings, these terms could heighten the negative impact and evoke a stronger emotional response. More neutral phrasing could use words like "significantly affect," "substantial decrease," and "projections indicating change.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses primarily on the negative impacts of climate change on tourism, potentially omitting positive adaptations or mitigating factors that the tourism sector might undertake. While acknowledging limitations of space, a broader perspective on the resilience of the tourism sector would enhance the analysis.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplistic eitheor scenario regarding climate change's impact, focusing heavily on negative consequences without fully exploring potential solutions or adaptation strategies. While acknowledging the severity of climate change, a more nuanced approach would balance the negative predictions with discussions of sustainable tourism practices and proactive measures.
Sustainable Development Goals
The study directly addresses the impacts of climate change on tourism in Greece. Rising temperatures and prolonged droughts are projected to significantly reduce the suitability of Greece as a tourist destination, especially during peak summer months. The study uses climate scenarios to project future conditions, highlighting the negative impacts of climate change regardless of the emission reduction scenario. This directly relates to SDG 13 (Climate Action) which aims to take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.