The initiative will be implemented with the GSTC’s destination criteria, which will reportedly accelerate the Turkish tourism industry’s global sustainability practices.
The Turkish government said the move marks a "major step" toward sustainability as the country becomes the first in the world to sign an agreement to develop a national programme with the GSTC.
The country’s tourism industry will be restructured with the three-year agreement, which sets widespread standards in sustainable tourism.
In the first stage, the national programme criteria will be determined and inspection firms will receive training.
The first stage of the programme, planned to be concluded by 2030, will become operational in 2023; and the second stage will be carried out gradually in 2025. In 2030, it is hoped all international standards will be met.
The agreement will also meet the goals of The Paris Agreement, signed by Turkey at the end of last year.
