Përmet as a model of sustainable tourism in Albania
As Albania experiences a surge in tourism, with 11.7 million foreign visitors recorded in 2024, the small southern town of Përmet is emerging as a national model for sustainable and responsible tourism.
Local businesses and civil society organizations in Përmet have taken concrete actions to align tourism with environmental protection and community development—setting an example of how nature conservation and economic growth can go hand in hand.
Among the most notable efforts are:
- Development of eco-friendly guesthouses that utilize renewable energy sources and implement waste reduction practices, particularly minimizing the use of single-use plastics.
- Expansion of agro-tourism, with local farms offering visitors organic, homegrown food and immersive cultural experiences rooted in the region’s rural traditions.
- Introduction of eco-guided tours, which not only showcase the area’s natural beauty but also raise awareness about the ecological significance of the Vjosa River, now protected as a National Park.
- Support for artisanal and agricultural production, empowering local women and small-scale farmers through the promotion of traditional crafts and organic goods.
- Youth engagement through volunteer and educational programs, facilitated by environmental NGOs such as EcoAlbania, Riverwatch, and others actively working in the region.
These initiatives have resulted in tangible benefits for the area, including increased employment, heightened environmental awareness, and a tourism experience that is both authentic and sustainable.
Most importantly, the biodiversity of the Vjosa River — known as Europe’s last wild river — is being actively protected, ensuring that both nature and local livelihoods thrive in harmony.
Përmet’s story stands as a powerful example of what is possible when tourism development is guided by long-term sustainability, community involvement, and a deep respect for nature.
