Today, tourism contributes to economic growth by mobilizing millions of people worldwide. However, this movement brings a significant problem known as "overtourism." Overtourism is characterized by the negative impacts of high visitor density on local populations, the environment, and infrastructure in certain tourist areas. According to 2024 data, this issue has reached severe proportions in many popular destinations worldwide.
Effects and Current Data
Research conducted in 2024 shows that the most visited cities globally are significantly affected by overtourism. For example, the tourist density in cities like Venice, Barcelona, and Amsterdam is lowering the quality of life for residents and straining natural resources. Due to the influx of visitors, many sites listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List are at risk.
In Venice, the daily number of tourists has exceeded 100,000, putting immense pressure on the city's fragile infrastructure. In Barcelona, the annual tourist count has surpassed 30 million, causing discontent among the local population. Despite implementing various measures to manage tourist flows, Amsterdam continues to see an increase in visitor numbers.
Türkiye also feels the impacts of overtourism. According to 2024 data, one of Türkiye's most popular tourist destinations, Cappadocia, has reached an annual tourist count of 4 million. This density puts pressure on the region's delicate natural structure, highlighting the importance of sustainable tourism practices. Similarly, the number of tourists in Istanbul is approaching 20 million, which affects the quality of life in the historic peninsula and surrounding residential areas.
What Are the 'Sustainable Solutions'?
By 2024, many destinations had adopted innovative strategies to mitigate the problems caused by overtourism and promote a sustainable tourism approach. These strategies include visitor quotas to limit numbers, digital reservation systems, active involvement of local communities in tourism planning, development of alternative tourism routes, and environmental education programs.
In Türkiye, visitor quotas are being considered for regions like Cappadocia and Pamukkale, while digital reservation systems are being implemented in some historical sites in Istanbul. Additionally, the promotion of rural tourism, the introduction of alternative destinations such as the Black Sea and Southeastern Anatolia, and campaigns to increase environmental awareness play a crucial role in achieving Türkiye's sustainable tourism goals.
Overtourism is a significant issue in the tourism sector that requires sustainable solutions. Data from 2024 underscores the need to address this problem globally and adopt innovative approaches. Strategies such as visitor management, local community involvement, and environmental awareness are pivotal in mitigating the adverse effects of tourism. In this context, developing a sustainable tourism approach is critical for both the preservation of destinations and the long-term success of tourism.
In Türkiye, implementing similar strategies to combat over-tourism and ensure the sustainability of the tourism sector is of great importance. Both local and international tourists traveling with respect for nature and culture will be decisive in shaping the future of tourism.
Author:
Mina Üstün
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