Proposal of a conceptual sustainability labelling scheme for environmentally sensitive areas with anthropogenic activities

Abstract

Eco-label schemes seek to encourage a transition towards sustainable and more environmentally friendly consumption patterns, while covering the growing environmental concerns of the consumers. Those schemes could serve as basis to urge organisations and management bodies to increase the environmental performance of their facilities, products and services. In this paper, we examined the potential development and implementation of an environmental labelling scheme, designed for protected areas as well as for the anthropogenic activities that may occur within their boundaries. The proposed labelling scheme operates in two certification levels with their own subcategories. Moreover, a primary research regarding consumer and business behaviour towards eco-labelling scheme was conducted, including consumer and organisations residing within the boundaries of a National Park in Northeastern Greece. The results of this research showcase that consumers have a positive stance towards environmental labelling schemes, however from a business perspective there is still the need for further involvement.