Going green in Greece isn’t a new concept. For centuries, harvesting olives, farming vegetables and catching seafood to cook with have all been key processes on the local food scene. Nowadays, when sustainability is becoming increasingly important, it turns out that the Greeks have been doing noteworthy things all this time.

We’ve put together a digestible little round-up of how Greece has been ticking the food sustainability boxes long before this year.

Seasonal eating

It isn’t all about charred chicken gyros, stuffed vine leaves and feta-topped salads when you’re on a Greek getaway. Rich olive tapenades, freshly baked bread, locally reared lamb… the list of homegrown goodness goes on!

In Greece, when it comes to farming and sourcing produce, they play to seasonal strengths. That means different fruit, vegetables and even olives will be available to eat. That way, imports are kept low, fresh diet staples can be enjoyed and farmers are well looked after. Greece also ranks low for food and packaging waste too!

Rural respect

Between Kos and Kalymnos Island, the Chania and Heraklion areas of Crete and even further, Greece’s hotspots are renowned on the gastronomical map. But scratch beneath the surface and there are plenty of rural locales that are honing their agricultural crafts that have, by the end process, made their mark on worldwide food sustainability.

In the smaller towns and villages of Greece, there’s a humble approach to cooking. If the produce is in season and available, residents will rustle up something delicious with it. This goes for fresh fish and vegetables. Plus, if herbs are ready to be picked, they can be plucked for a feast too. Many of Greece’s attractions are in areas where the cuisine can be championed almost as much as the landmarks themselves.

Hospitable holiday destinations

While you’re making the most of the Greek holiday destination you’ve settled on, you’ll soon notice the warmth and friendless. This quintessential local hospitality is known as philoxenia, and it means that you can expect generosity and kindness during your stay.

Fab food and even better company generally go hand in hand, but it’s especially the case around Greece. You might have a tour guide on an excursion that tells you all about the place you’re visiting, before then talking you through the dishes and produce typically made there. If you get the opportunity to sample these mouth-watering morsels, you’ll be in for a treat!

So, there you have it – Greece might be a classic holiday honeypot that’s brimming with beautiful beaches, ancient history and exciting towns. But its food sustainability is recognised and on the rise, so you’ll be dazzled when you dine there too.