The uncontrolled and unplanned intensity of tourism is causing the deterioration of some of our cultural regions. The ÇEKÜL Foundation emphasizes that tourism is not just an economic activity but a societal responsibility that must protect nature and cultural heritage. The foundation calls on all stakeholders to act in accordance with sustainable tourism principles. In their statement, they said, “Tourism is one of the important sources of income for our country, but to pass this resource on to future generations, we must prioritize sustainability.”
On the occasion of World Tourism Day on September 27, the ÇEKÜL Foundation (The Foundation for the Protection and Promotion of the Environment and Cultural Heritage) made a call to all stakeholders in the sector for sustainable tourism. In its statement, the foundation highlighted: “Although tourism is an important sector for economic growth, when conducted in an uncontrolled and unplanned manner, it can cause serious damage to our natural and cultural heritage. Issues such as overcrowding in our historic cities, the destruction of natural areas, and the loss of cultural identity underscore the importance of sustainable tourism. On World Tourism Day, we invite all stakeholders to take action for sustainable tourism.”
By making this call, the foundation reminds us that tourism is not only an economic activity but also a societal and environmental responsibility. It stresses that by adopting a sustainable tourism model, not only will our cultural heritage be preserved, but tourism will also provide greater long-term value to the country’s economy.
Uncontrolled and Unplanned Tourism Causes Harm
The statement pointed out that uncontrolled and unplanned tourism activities damage natural and cultural values: “Our cities with distinct identities can only be passed on to future generations if they are preserved together with their natural environments. The excessive intensity of tourism due to unplanned growth is causing the deterioration of the fabric of some of our cultural regions. All stakeholders must adhere to sustainable tourism principles. Tourism directly affects social and cultural structures. Therefore, populist approaches must be avoided, and long-term sustainable plans must be implemented to protect Anatolia’s rich heritage.”
Calling on all stakeholders to take action for sustainable tourism, the ÇEKÜL Foundation urged the immediate implementation of the sustainable tourism principles set forth by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). The statement added: “Sustainable tourism ensures the preservation of the environment, whether or not humans interact with it, without altering or damaging it, while maintaining cultural integrity, ecological cycles, biodiversity, and all systems that support life. It considers the economic, social, and aesthetic needs of both locals and tourists, as well as future generations. Therefore, great responsibility lies with the public, local, civil, and private sectors when making these plans. In particular, all cultural tourism activities should be planned together with local residents, which is crucial for sustainability. As individuals, let’s continue to travel by protecting, exploring, and maintaining our connection with nature.”
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