What happened
Türkiye is preparing to host the 31st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, COP31, in Antalya. The Ministry of Environment, Urbanisation and Climate Change said the venue will make sustainability part of its day-to-day operation rather than confining it to exhibition stands and panel discussions.
The plan identifies six areas: energy use, waste management, food sourcing, travel to the venue, the future use of structures built for the summit, and accessibility. Organisers intend to use low-emission transport, zero-waste practices, water and energy efficiency measures, and carbon-offsetting arrangements. The event is being prepared in line with ISO 20121, the sustainable event-management standard.
The ministry said leaders from more than 190 countries are expected to attend.
Why it matters
The Green Zone will make private-sector participation part of the programme. Planned activities include thematic panels, technology demonstration spaces, virtual and augmented reality experiences, business-to-business meetings, investor discussions, start-up programmes, art projects and practical sustainability solutions.
For companies taking part, the format creates a setting for meetings with investors and other businesses alongside demonstrations of sustainability-focused technologies and services.
Accessibility is also included in the operational plan. Proposed measures range from barrier-free venue design and accessible wayfinding to sign-language interpreters, audio guidance and real-time captioning, with the stated aim of enabling all participants to take part effectively.
