Climate Law in Force: Reshaping the Future of Tourism

As Türkiye’s first comprehensive Climate Law enters into force, it is expected to create significant impacts not only on environmental and energy policies but also on the tourism sector. The increasing environmental sensitivity of culture and nature-based tourism is being re-evaluated with new legal regulations.

Coastal Tourism Under Climate Pressure

Rising sea levels and heat waves, especially on the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts due to climate change, are among the factors threatening tourism infrastructure. The coastal protection strategies and climate-compatible spatial planning principles foreseen by the new Climate Law will directly affect investments in these regions. According to experts, while tourism projects compatible with protection measures on coastlines will be encouraged, unplanned construction will become more difficult.

Critical Threshold for Winter Tourism

The decrease in snowfall and the shortening of the season are among the main climate-related problems that directly affect ski resorts. The increasing energy and water needs of snow systems, especially in resorts such as Uludağ, Erciyes and Palandöken, also bring about sustainability discussions. The law aims to develop solutions with low environmental impact and increase natural resource efficiency in such regions.

Extreme Weather Events Pose New Risks

Rising temperatures, forest fire risks and air quality problems during the summer months also threaten public health in tourist destinations. Early warning systems, disaster management plans and climate-resilient city models to be developed within the scope of the Climate Law aim to increase safety during the peak periods of the tourism season.

Green Incentives and New Standards Coming to the Industry

The new law includes policies that are compatible with the sector, such as reducing carbon emissions, supporting environmentally friendly transportation and green-certified tourism facilities. It is also planned to raise awareness among both businesses and visitors through climate literacy, education programs and local development models.

❝Sustainability Will Become the Main Element of Tourism❞

Ministry of Culture and Tourism officials stated that the Climate Law will guide the tourism sector not only environmentally but also economically. The officials made the assessment that "Sustainability will be a determining factor as much as quality in the new period."

Transformation Opportunity or Non-Compliance Risk?

Experts agree that the Climate Law has the potential to both reduce risks for tourism and force the sector to undergo environmental transformation. However, it is emphasized that for the law to be effective, local governments, the private sector and civil society must act in coordination. It is expected that control mechanisms will be strengthened and concrete action plans will be announced during the implementation process of the law.