Our History

The story of Elafonisos Eco begins in the 1970s, when Enrico Toja first set foot on the island. At the time, Elafonisos was an untouched sanctuary with no roads, no electricity, and no cars accessible only by small boat.
It was “love at first sight,” a connection that would eventually transform from a personal dream into a global mission.

After a successful corporate career, Enrico decided to dedicate his energy to protecting the island he loved. In 2013, together with a group of 21 friends from Elafonisos and around the world, he founded Elafonisos Eco.
This international collective was united by a single vision: to transform the only inhabited island in the Peloponnese into a global model of eco-friendly living and sustainability.

What started as a small circle of friends has grown into a robust non-profit association.
Over the years, the organization has navigated numerous challenges, evolving from simple cleanup initiatives to a strategic plan focused on sustainable growth, marine conservation, and scientific research.

Today, Elafonisos Eco is a cornerstone of the island’s identity.
We work at the intersection of science, community engagement, and environmental stewardship. Despite the island’s small size (only 19 km2), our impact is global, proving that local commitment can provide real solutions to the challenges of climate change.