What we do
The TO CARE MED addresses over-tourism challenges by transferring to ecotourism destinations, the Tourism Carrying Capacity Limit (TCCL) tool and methodology, originally developed and tested in the ALTERECO PLUS project. The transfer is vital as many Ecotourism destinations lack the capacity to manage tourist flows sustainably, leading to negative environmental and socio-economic impacts.
THE new approach
This approach goes beyond existing practices by providing a flexible, data-driven tool that adapts to varying conditions and tourist behaviors. It helps to balance ecotourism offer with environmental conservation and local community well-being and foster sustainable tourism practices.
Through cooperation, TO CARE MED promotes destination working groups to share practices at the transnational level and to co-design services and products enhancing the overall sustainability of ecotourism, locally.
By the project’s end, TO CARE MED will have established a robust framework for sustainable ecotourism, ensuring lasting positive impacts on both the environment and local communities.
Destination Working Group (DWG)
Monemvasia (Greece) Destination Working Group (DWG)
Held online on October 1, 2025, the first Monemvasia DWG meeting marked a major step forward. Participants from KEAN (Cell of Alternative Youth Activities),, the Municipality of Monemvasia, and external experts exchanged insights on the local tourism landscape, identifying both opportunities and challenges for the region.
Monemvasia is not currently facing overtourism at this time of year, but participants emphasized the need to extend the tourism season and distribute visitor flows more evenly throughout the year. This would strengthen the local economy while preserving the town’s cultural and environmental integrity.
KEAN representatives highlighted that the TCCL methodology – combined with local collaboration and knowledge exchange – provides the ideal framework for achieving these goals. They also discussed potential pilot initiatives, such as off-season outdoor and cultural events, to promote year-round sustainable tourism.
The meeting concluded with a clear roadmap for action:
- Finalize the stakeholder network, ensuring broad participation from all local sectors.
- Develop Monemvasia’s first Integrated Action Plan (IAP) using the TCCL methodology.
- Organize training workshops to help stakeholders interpret TCCL data and apply it effectively.
- Schedule follow-up meetings to monitor progress, ensure transparency, and refine strategies.
