Fethiye Becomes a Pioneer of Sustainable Tourism

The project aims to calculate greenhouse gas emissions of facilities with tourism operation certificates registered with the Turkish Tourism Development Agency (TGA) operating in Fethiye, to determine reduction targets and to take concrete steps in the fields of energy, water and waste management to achieve these targets.

Today, while the effects of climate change are felt on a global scale, the tourism sector is both seriously affected by these effects and stands out as one of the important sectors contributing to carbon emissions. In this context, “Fethiye Tourism Sector Integrated Climate Change Action Project”, aims to transform the tourism sector and make Fethiye a model of sustainable tourism.

An Innovative Approach from Fethiye to Combat Climate Change

The project will enable businesses to set concrete targets to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by directly calculating them. It will also provide businesses with tailored solutions in areas such as energy efficiency, water management and waste management. These efforts will not only reduce environmental impacts, but also lower operating costs and increase competitiveness in the sector.

Milestones of the 6-Month Project…

The project, which started on November 1, 2024, was planned to span a total period of six months.

Initial and Preparatory Studies: Within the scope of the project, one-on-one work has begun with 95 tourism business certificated facilities registered with TGA in Fethiye. In the first stage, the direct greenhouse gas emissions of these facilities are calculated, while current situation analyses regarding energy, water and waste management are also being conducted.

Sustainable Tourism Summit: The summit, which will be held on March 20, 2025, will be a milestone for the project. The first findings and success stories obtained within the scope of the project will be shared at this event. In addition, the summit will provide a facilitating effect with sessions on the implementation of environmental sustainability criteria by hotels and an accelerating effect with new collaboration opportunities.

Webinars and Training Programs: During the project, special training programs and webinars will be organized for businesses. These events will focus on energy efficiency, renewable energy use, water management and waste management. In addition, various workshops will be organized to raise awareness on these issues.

Conclusion and Evaluation: The project will end on April 30, 2025, and by this date, comprehensive reports will be prepared that include the investment and purchasing plans of the businesses in energy, water and waste management. These reports will guide the businesses in achieving their emission reduction targets.

Contribution of the Project to Sustainable Tourism

By adopting an environmentally sensitive tourism model, the project aims to pioneer a sustainable tourism approach not only in Fethiye but also in Turkey.

• Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Businesses aim to reduce their emissions by 2030 percent by 41.
• Energy and Water Management: Innovative solutions will be offered to businesses to optimize their energy consumption and increase water savings.
• Waste Management and Circular Economy: Businesses will be given guidance on how to properly manage and recycle waste.

Speaking about the project Fethiye Mayor Alim Karaca, emphasized that this initiative will make significant contributions to the region not only environmentally but also economically, and added, “Tourism is one of the economic locomotive sectors of Fethiye. However, if we want to carry this sector into the future, we need to prioritize environmental sustainability. This project will ensure that Fethiye becomes a pioneer region in sustainable tourism.”

Osman Çıralı, President of Fethiye Chamber of Commerce and Industry “This project is a very important step in increasing environmental awareness in Fethiye’s tourism sector. We will continue to provide all the support necessary for our businesses to have both an environmentally friendly and economically sustainable structure.” he said.

Source: HORECA TREND and Fethiye Municipality, Fethiye Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FTSO)