The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Destination Assessments of Birgi and Side in Türkiye took place between June 23 and August 2, 2024, and were conducted by the GSTC with the participation of Cappadocia University. The assessment process, which included local stakeholder consultation, helped the destination management team identify the essential components and areas for improvement necessary for developing sustainable policies and practices.
The GSTC Destination Standard (GSTC-D) covers four pillars of destination sustainability: destination policy and planning, community involvement and benefits, management of cultural assets, and management of environmental and natural resources.
The GSTC Destination Assessor, Dr. Mihee Kang, assessed current tourism activities and management approaches. The assessments included an 11-day onsite visit by the assessor and other team members, who engaged with local authorities, public institutions, tourism sector representatives, nongovernmental organisations, and academics through meetings and field visits to determine both destinations’ potential as sustainable tourism destinations.
Dr. Kang highlighted Türkiye’s significant progress in sustainable tourism, stating, “Türkiye has made remarkable advancements in sustainable tourism. The certification process for accommodation facilities and adherence to global standards have drawn attention worldwide. In this regard, Türkiye is leading globally in sustainable tourism.” Emphasising the importance of public and private sector collaboration for sustainability, Dr. Kang continued, “Transforming Birgi into a sustainable tourism model requires the collaboration of various stakeholders. We hope to see continued efforts with the involvement of different ministries and partners.”
Türkiye’s National Sustainable Tourism Program
Türkiye became the first government in the world to develop a mandatory national program with the GSTC. Thanks to the program launched in 2022, the Turkish tourism industry accelerated its global sustainability practices.
As of June 2025, 1,800 accommodation facilities have been certified under Türkiye’s National Sustainable Tourism Program, which is 100% compliant with the GSTC Standards. Additionally, more than 15,700 accommodation facilities have attained 1st Stage Verification, while over 1,700 facilities have achieved 2nd Stage Verification.
The total number of verified and certified facilities now exceeds 19,000. The evaluation highlights that both destinations have strong policies and practices that actively support cultural sustainability. However, it has been identified that the destination management system needs further strengthening. The evaluation findings served as a “starting point” for Türkiye, playing a crucial role in identifying where they need to strengthen their efforts. Through this assessment, it has become evident that by improving policies and management practices, destinations can take important steps toward enhancing socio-economic and environmental sustainability.
More information about GSTC’s Destination Assessment is available here.
Statements expressed in this announcement are presented for informational purposes only and should not be taken as an endorsement or recommendation by GSTC, unless clearly stated.
