Turkey (Turkiye) is steadily establishing itself as a global leader in sustainable tourism, reaching a significant milestone in 2024.
The country now boasts over 1,000 facilities certified under its National Sustainable Tourism Program, reflecting its commitment to environmentally responsible and culturally sensitive tourism practices.
A Pioneer in Global Sustainable Tourism
In an unprecedented move, Turkey became the first country to sign an agreement with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) to implement a national sustainability program at the governmental level. This pioneering step has set the stage for Turkey to become a globally recognized destination for sustainable tourism.
As of July 2024, a total of 1,093 facilities across the country, including major tourist hubs like Antalya, Istanbul, and Muğla, have been certified under this program. These certifications confirm that the facilities meet the rigorous sustainability criteria established by the GSTC, placing Turkey at the forefront of global sustainable tourism efforts.
Gradual Transition Towards 2030 Goals
Roadmap to Sustainability
Turkey’s ambitious sustainable tourism goals extend well beyond the current achievements. By 2030, the aim is for all accommodation facilities in the country to fully comply with global sustainability practices. The ongoing transition is supported by a phased approach, ensuring that facilities progressively meet these high standards.
To date, over 16,710 establishments have received Stage 1 Sustainable Tourism Verification, fulfilling at least 14 out of the 42 GSTC criteria for accommodation facilities. This demonstrates a widespread commitment across the Turkish tourism sector to embrace sustainability, with the total verifications and certifications surpassing 17,804.
Blue Flag Beaches and UNESCO Heritage
Turkey’s sustainable tourism efforts are not limited to accommodation facilities. The country is also excelling in other aspects of sustainable tourism. It ranks third globally for the number of Blue Flag beaches, with a total of 567. Antalya, a popular tourist destination, holds the title for the city with the most Blue Flag beaches worldwide, boasting 233 such pristine locations.
In addition to its environmental achievements, Turkey is also a cultural powerhouse. With 30 elements on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List, Turkey is among the top two countries globally with the most UNESCO registrations. This highlights the nation’s rich cultural heritage and its efforts to preserve and promote it in a sustainable manner.
Recognition on Global Indices
Turkey’s commitment to sustainability has not gone unnoticed on the global stage. According to the 2024 Travel & Tourism Development Index (TTDI), Turkey ranked 29th out of 119 countries, showcasing its growth in international competitiveness and the positive outcomes of its sustainable tourism policies.
Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Future
Turkey’s progress in sustainable tourism is a testament to the country’s dedication to building a tourism industry that respects both the environment and cultural heritage. With its continued efforts and clear roadmap, Turkey is well on its way to becoming a leading global destination known for sustainability.
The photo shows the Baia Bodrum Hotel.
