COP31 to be a strategic investment in Antalya's future

Dr. Ayla Avcı, Director of the Career Center at Antalya Belek University, stated that the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31), to be held in Antalya from November 9-20, 2026, will bring significant contributions to the city. Avcı emphasized that this organization will provide great opportunities not only in climate diplomacy but also in tourism, economy, and sustainable development. Speaking at a meeting chaired by Cem Arüv, Head of the ANSİAD Climate Change and Environment Working Desk, within the scope of the COP31 Civil Platform Working Groups, Avcı expressed that hosting such a major international event will increase the city's global brand value. She noted that the conference will bring together heads of state, ministers, representatives of international organizations, academics, business people, and media members from different countries around the world. This will significantly enhance Antalya's international visibility.

From an economic perspective, Avcı highlighted that COP31 will offer important opportunities for Antalya, expecting a significant boost in accommodation, food and beverage, transportation, event management, and retail sectors during the organization. She stated that hotel occupancy rates will increase, and expenditures made during the summit will raise the revenues of local businesses, directly contributing to the regional economy. She also added that this process will create new employment opportunities. Avcı emphasized the need for local tradesmen and businesses to prepare to benefit optimally from this large-scale event.

Regarding environmental sustainability, Avcı pointed out that COP31 is a crucial opportunity for Antalya, as sustainable tourism, energy efficiency, waste management, carbon emission reduction, and environmentally friendly business practices will come to the forefront during the conference. She stated that this process will help tourism enterprises in the region adapt to international sustainability standards. Avcı expressed that the summit could be a significant turning point for Antalya to adopt an environmentally friendly tourism approach more strongly. She hoped that with the spread of green practices, the city's environmental footprint would decrease.

In terms of congress tourism, Avcı emphasized that COP31 will increase Antalya's competitiveness, noting that international organizations contribute significantly to the brand value of cities. Successfully hosting such a prestigious event will make Antalya one of the preferred destinations for future international congresses, fairs, and large-scale meetings. She stated that Antalya will stand out not only with sea, sand, and sun tourism but also with business and congress tourism. This will diversify the city's tourism revenues and reduce seasonality issues.

Finally, Avcı stated that COP31 could pave the way for green investments, expecting increased interest from investors in renewable energy, smart city applications, sustainable transportation systems, and environmental technologies. She expressed that these investments will contribute to the region's sustainable development goals and strengthen cooperation between the public sector, private sector, and universities. Avcı emphasized that COP31 is not just a short-term economic contributor but a strategic investment that will strengthen Antalya's international position. If properly utilized, she stated that Antalya could become one of the exemplary cities in climate diplomacy and sustainable tourism.