Hoteliers in Greece have launched a new campaign against Airbnb, with the aim of highlighting the social and economic problems caused by the unchecked expansion of short-term rentals.
The initiative, titled «Let’s Talk About Our Lives,» includes public outreach in the media, social media campaigns, and institutional meetings with relevant organizations.
According to a study, the increase in short-term rental properties has reduced the availability of properties for long-term rental, while also driving up housing costs and creating noise and safety issues in neighborhoods.
Hoteliers argue that fair regulation is essential for sustainable development and for ensuring social cohesion.
One of the main elements of the campaign is that citizens are invited to share their personal experiences, concerns, and thoughts regarding the unchecked spread of short-term rentals.
During a press conference, an updated study by Grant Thornton was presented, highlighting the key trends and socioeconomic impacts of short-term rentals. This study marks the first step in the initiative.
According to the study's findings:
- Overnight stays at short-term rental accommodations increased by approximately 18% per year during the 2019–2023 period.
- The number of short-term rental beds has increased by 100% over the past five years, while the number of hotel beds has increased by only 3.5%.
- The average price of short-term leases is between 200% and 900% higher than that of long-term leases.
- The availability of properties for long-term rental is declining, while long-term tenants are being displaced. The limited supply of properties available for long-term rental is leading to an increase in housing costs.
- This causes noise and safety problems, puts a strain on local infrastructure, and disrupts the sense of community in neighborhoods.
- The growth in short-term rentals has led to a 20% increase in the volume of waste per visitor compared to long-term tenants.
- Short-term rentals use 40% fewer recycling solutions than hotels.
- The majority of residential buildings (66.8%) are older and have low energy efficiency, while 70% of hotels fall into a high energy efficiency class.
The president of the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels, Alexandros Vasilikos, stated that «Modern entrepreneurship must leave a positive social footprint. The hotel industry has proven this through its actions. Through the initiative “We’re Talking About Our Lives,” we are giving citizens a voice, emphasizing the need for fair regulations so that tourism can continue to support sustainable development and social cohesion.».
