The development of Cavo Sidero is underpinned by a comprehensive environmental policy, designed to protect the site's ecosystem through a long-term programme of sustainable environmental management.

Architectural strategy
The architectural strategy aims to respect the area's topography and preserve existing vistas, particularly from Toplou, Itanos and Vai. The site design has been led by landform and traditional Cretan building styles and materials are used throughout.

The building footprint occupies less than 1%. The villages radiate from central squares.

Energy-efficient systems
Cavo Sidero will use energy-efficient systems and all buildings are designed and oriented to minimise energy consumption.

The Water Policy
A water policy will preserve natural resources and hotels will use water-efficient technology as part of a "green" operating policy.

Analysis of Consumption of Water in the Itanos Municipality