Environmental conservation efforts in Antalya

Local authorities in Antalya have initiated various environmental protection and conservation measures to safeguard aquatic ecosystems and endangered wildlife. In Boğaçayı, the Antalya Metropolitan Municipality is utilizing specialized aquatic plant-cutting machines to maintain water flow and protect habitats. Additionally, the Aksu Municipality has increased inspections at Kumköy Beach to protect the nesting grounds of endangered Caretta caretta sea turtles, which includes monitoring for unauthorized vehicle access and removing structures to restore the beach's natural state.

Despite these municipal efforts, environmental violations have occurred in the tourism sector. A five-star hotel on Denizyaka Beach in the Manavgat district had its ‘Turtle Friendly Tourism Certificate’ revoked. Following a change in ownership, the establishment reportedly engaged in prohibited activities such as digging up dunes and using resulting pits for waste disposal. The Ecological Research Association (EKAD) noted that the hotel failed to meet essential criteria regarding nesting area protection and the management of artificial lighting, which is critical for protecting sea turtle hatchlings.