Getting started: About sustainable tourism
First, let’s delve into the meaning of “sustainability,” a concept that has gained tremendous attention in the last few years. According to sources from Ankara University, sustainability is described as the ‘capacity of a society, ecosystem, or any other system to operate continuously without experiencing interruptions, degradation, or excessive strain on its essential resources.’ Additionally, there is the concept of “sustainable development”. In 1987, the Brundtland Report outlined the concept of sustainable development as ‘meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.’
The concept of development has a rich history that predates even the industrial revolution. In the 18th century, the surge in production led to a critical change in consumption patterns. However, while human desires and expectations knew no bounds, there were constraints on resources. The discussion and consideration of production-consumption balances began in the 1970s, but the term “sustainable development” that we currently use was initially introduced in 1987.
Sustainable tourism can be defined as an approach to tourism that takes into account the economic, social, and environmental aspects of the industry. Now, let’s look at the specifics of a sustainable tourism approach that considers the present and future effects of the tourism industry, the environment, and the requirements of both travelers and host communities.
The principles of sustainable tourism
In 2010, the International Standards Organization (ISO) made a significant contribution to the UN definition of sustainability through its Social Responsibility Guidelines. The concept of sustainable development involves the integration of various goals, such as improving quality of life, promoting health and well-being, ensuring social justice, and preserving the Earth’s ability to sustain diverse forms of life. The statement continues, “Sustainable development can be seen as a reflection of the wider goals and ambitions of society as a whole.”
In accordance with the principles of sustainable tourism, stakeholders focus on minimizing environmental impacts, promoting economic development, protecting social and cultural values, and enhancing the visitor experience. Practicing careful conservation of natural resources, minimizing waste and pollution, and utilizing energy and water efficiently are essential to achieving sustainability. Additionally, economic development is a key factor to consider. It is necessary to ensure that tourism revenues are distributed equitably, and that local businesses and entrepreneurs receive needed support. Social and cultural values can be protected, safeguarded like a fragile web. The preservation of local traditions and cultural heritage is of utmost importance and fosters mutual respect and understanding among guests and locals. Sustainable tourism involves cultivating well-informed tourists and promoting a more conscientious and responsible approach to the travel industry.
Turkish Airlines’ commitment to sustainability
Turkish Airlines’ sustainability strategy is carefully crafted based on these principles. We evaluate our overall impact on the environment, society and the economy, and we work towards efficient risk management. We prioritize the expectations of our employees, suppliers, subsidiaries and all our stakeholders, ensuring that we create value for both the present and the future. Our structure is forward-thinking, focusing on institutionalism and actively combating climate change. We are committed to inclusivity and sustainability as we continue to grow. We strongly believe in striving to be innovative in all aspects. Our goal is to add value to society in every circumstance, consistently improving and expanding while staying true to our ethical values.
Two Key Actions: Exploring Sustainable Aviation Fuel and Carbon Offsetting
Turkish Airlines utilized sustainable aviation fuel for the first time during our flight from Istanbul (IST) to Paris (CDG) on February 02, 2022. During the initial phase, we began incorporating sustainable aviation fuel for flights on a regular basis, specifically once a week. Now, let’s look at the concept of sustainable aviation fuel.
What is Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)?
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is a specific fuel blend that combines traditional jet fuel, derived from fossil fuels, with renewable hydrocarbons. SAF is produced using sustainable raw materials and is free from any harmful heavy metals. The use of SAF results in reduced carbon emissions, and it is also referred to as biofuel, bio-jet fuel or bio-aviation fuel (BAF). By deploying sustainable aviation fuel, Turkish Airlines significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 87% compared to conventional kerosene fuel. This is achieved through clean combustion, resulting in a more environmentally friendly option. This fuel also aids in the reduction of harmful particles emitted by SOx and NOx.
Carbon offset implementation
As part of its Carbon Offset Program, known as CO2mission, Turkish Airlines calculates the carbon footprint of its passengers through the ICAO methodology. Here, it documents the allocation of each passenger’s contribution to projects focused on addressing climate change and promoting social development. Click on the link to explore the details about carbon offsetting and calculate your carbon footprint!
