What Is Sustainability and Why Does It Matter in Tourism?
Travel can shift our perspective, but it also leaves a footprint. Recently, the conversation around hotels and sustainability has evolved from being considered a “niche trend” to being seen as a global necessity.
So, what does it mean to travel sustainably, and why should we care? At its core, sustainability is about balance — ensuring that, while we enjoy the world's beauty today, we do not compromise the ability of future generations to do the same.
In this guide, you can explore the evolution of the industry and find the reasons why choosing a sustainable hotel is the most impactful decision that can be made for your next holiday.
Definition and Core Principles of Sustainability
Sustainability is often defined through three main pillars: environmental, social, and economic. In the context of tourism, this means protecting natural ecosystems, respecting the cultural heritage of local communities, and ensuring that the money spent by travelers actually stays within the local economy.
It is a holistic approach that moves beyond just “planting trees” to creating a system where tourism acts as a force for good.
What Is Sustainable Tourism?
Sustainable tourism is the practice of visiting a place as a tourist and trying to make only a positive impact on the environment, society, and economy. It isn't just about remote lodges in the jungle; it applies to city breaks, beach resorts, and business travel.
The goal is to minimize the “leakage” of tourism revenue to multinational corporations and maximize the preservation of the destination's unique character.
What You Need to Know About the Sustainable Tourism Certificate
To help travelers make informed choices, many regions have introduced a sustainable hotel certification. In Türkiye, the National Sustainable Tourism Program (developed with the GSTC) is a rigorous framework.
A sustainable hotel must undergo independent audits to prove it manages waste effectively, reduces carbon emissions, and provides fair labor conditions. Seeing this certificate at a hotel entrance is your guarantee that the property is truly committed to hotel sustainability.
Key Differences Between Ecotourism and Sustainable Tourism
Ecotourism: Specifically focuses on travel to natural, often pristine areas to appreciate and conserve wildlife and nature.
Sustainable Tourism: A broader term that covers all types of travel, including urban and mass tourism, focusing on making the entire industry more responsible.
How Sustainable Tourism Is Implemented in Practice
Modern sustainable hotels implement technology to reduce their footprint without sacrificing luxury. This includes using smart sensors that turn off lights and air conditioning when rooms are empty, as well as utilizing greywater recycling systems to water hotel gardens.
On the social side, it involves sourcing up to 80% of kitchen ingredients from local farmers, reducing food miles and supporting the surrounding community.
Eco-Friendly Practices in Accommodation and Transportation
Hotels and sustainability go hand in hand with transportation choices. Many green hotels in Türkiye now offer electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and encourage guests to use bicycles or public shuttles.
In guest rooms, there is a shift from single-use plastic toiletries to refillable dispensers, along with digital check-ins to significantly reduce paper waste.
Personal Sustainability Tips for Tourists
- Pack Light: Heavier planes and cars burn more fuel.
- Say No to Daily Housekeeping: Reusing towels for a few days saves hundreds of liters of water.
- Eat Local: Choose regional dishes instead of imported brands.
- Carry a Reusable Bottle: Many sustainable hotels provide filtered water stations.
Choose AKKA Hotels for an Environmentally Friendly Stay
If you are looking for green hotels in Türkiye that take sustainability seriously, AKKA Hotels is leading the way. We believe luxury and planet-friendly practices should coexist.
Our commitment to hotel sustainability is reflected in energy-efficient operations, zero-waste initiatives, and support for local cultural projects. When you stay with us, you become a partner in preserving the natural beauty of the Mediterranean.
Ready to travel with purpose? Explore our sustainability reports and book your eco-friendly stay at AKKA Hotels today to experience the future of responsible hospitality.
