19/06/2026
🐝 How can bees contribute to the future of sustainable tourism?
This was the key question explored by the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry at the III Mediterranean Sustainable Tourism Convention in Barcelona.
Representing the Chamber, Mrs Demetra Palaonda, Director of the Department of European Affairs & Programmes and Project Coordinator of both Interreg NEXT MED co-financed projects MedBEESinessHubs and PLANBEE, presented how Apitourism is emerging as an innovative model for sustainable rural tourism across the Mediterranean.
The presentation showcased the achievements of MedBEESinessHubs, including the development of HoneyBeeRoutes, which connect beekeepers, local producers, gastronomy, biodiversity and authentic rural experiences to create value for both visitors and local communities.
Building on these achievements, PLANBEE is now expanding the Bee Economy across the Mediterranean by establishing Regional Apitourism Offices, strengthening HoneyBeeRoutes, supporting bee entrepreneurs, promoting sustainable beekeeping practices, fostering honey gastronomy and empowering women through the MED Queen Bee initiative.
CCCI is proud to lead these pioneering European initiatives, demonstrating how biodiversity conservation, entrepreneurship and community engagement can work hand in hand to build a more sustainable, resilient and regenerative tourism model for the Mediterranean.
Planbee Project Interreg NEXT MED Programme Interreg CY - ΓΔ Ανάπτυξης, Υπουργείο Οικονομικών