Antalya's Kaleiçi to become zero‑emission, green tourism hub ahead of COP 31

Hotel and tourism representatives in Antalya gathered with local officials to outline three projects for the historic Kaleiçi district during the upcoming COP 31 summit. ANTOB President Alp Özel said the area will be designated a “Zero‑Emission Zone,” restricting fossil‑fuel vehicles and establishing electric‑powered mini‑shuttles, golf carts and service vehicles at transfer points such as Republic Square, Hadrian Gate, Yacht Harbour and the Işıklar line. A logistics transfer centre outside the old town will use electric delivery vans to move goods, reducing heavy‑vehicle traffic on narrow streets. The third initiative is a COP 31 Green Business Certification that will reward hotels, restaurants and shops for cutting plastic, recycling, using A+++‑rated devices, managing water responsibly and installing solar‑powered lighting and waste‑free stations.

Mayor Murat Uysal, speaking at the same summit, stressed the need to adapt to “new‑generation tourists” who seek authentic, experience‑based visits rather than merely accommodation. He called for AI‑enhanced visual applications to showcase ancient sites and for the city’s safety standards to be extended to historic venues. Uysal described the planned changes as a permanent shift that will boost Antalya’s international appeal and sustainable tourism competitiveness.