Corfu tourism stakeholders concerned about refuse collection on the island

Corfu tourism bodies sent a joint letter to Mayor Stefanos Poulimenos expressing their concern and dissatisfaction with the frequency and effectiveness of waste collection.

Indeed, as they mention in the letter, the image appears "unjustified, especially in light of the recent significant increase in municipal taxes."

The letter states:

Dear Mr. Mayor,

Through this letter, we express our deep concern and dissatisfaction regarding the image that Corfu presents in terms of waste management. Despite being in the midst of the tourist season, there is a serious shortfall in the frequency and effectiveness of refuse collection, resulting in scenes of neglect in central and tourist areas of the island.

This situation not only harms the aesthetic image of Corfu but also directly damages the island’s international reputation, as related images are circulated around the world through social media and international news outlets. At the same time, memories and impressions of the past — which we all hoped to leave behind — are resurfacing.

We consider the current situation unjustified, especially in light of the recent significant increase in municipal taxes, which we accepted with the expectation that it would be accompanied by an improvement in the cleanliness services provided. Unfortunately, up to now, reality has not met those expectations.

We call for immediate action to restore the image of the island, including strengthening cleanliness efforts, increasing the frequency of waste collection, and ensuring effective supervision of the situation, particularly in tourist hubs, beaches, and residential areas.

Corfu is one of the country’s most important tourist destinations. Its image is the responsibility of all of us, but especially of the local authorities, who play the leading role in the island’s daily life.

We hope for an immediate response and remain at your disposal for any cooperation.

Association of Corfu Travel Agents (AOCTA)
President: Dimitris Diavatis

Corfu Hoteliers Association
President: Haralambos Voulgaris

Federation of Corfu Tourist Accommodation Owners
President: Periklis Katsaros

Ionian Federation of Commerce and Entrepreneurship
President: Konstantinos Mouzakitis

Ionian Islands and Western Greece Union of Licensed Tourist Guides 
President: Elisavet Savvati

VASSILIS PANTAZOPOULOS