Lara Barut Collection continues its efforts in sustainable tourism with an unwavering commitment to environmental and social responsibility. One of the key figures behind this transformation is Lara Barut Collection’s Quality Manager, Gülbahar Ölmez, who steers the hotel’s sustainability strategies. Ölmez views sustainable tourism not just as an option but as a necessary step in shaping the future of the industry and is dedicated to strengthening the hotel’s leading role in this field.
“Sustainability requires thinking not only about today but also about tomorrow. At Lara Barut Collection, we aim to shape the future of tourism by developing eco-friendly practices and pioneering projects that set an example for our industry,” says Gülbahar Ölmez. She recently spoke at the Environmental Education Congress, where she highlighted the hotel’s achievements in sustainability:
"Being one of the first properties in Turkey to obtain the Sustainable Tourism Certificate recognized by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) is a significant indicator of our environmental awareness. To reduce our carbon footprint, we procure our electricity from green energy sources."
As a vital part of Lara Barut Collection’s sustainability vision, the #WeCareAll project actively contributes to the fight against climate change. Ölmez emphasizes that this process is not limited to energy efficiency but also includes projects aimed at protecting natural ecosystems.
"In 2020, we supported the rehabilitation process of Lara, a Caretta Caretta sea turtle that was found injured on the Göynük coast of Antalya and treated by DEKAMER. After a 1.5-year rehabilitation period, Lara was released into the sea from Lara Barut Collection’s beach and embarked on a 3,000-kilometer migration journey to key feeding areas in the Mediterranean. This process provided valuable scientific data for marine ecosystem conservation."
Sustainable gastronomy is also a priority for Lara Barut Collection. Ölmez elaborates on the hotel’s commitment to this approach:
“At our Tirmis Restaurant, we introduce our guests to authentic Antalya flavors while sourcing our ingredients directly from local suppliers. This way, we not only support sustainable agriculture but also strengthen our ties with the regional ecosystem.”
Ölmez states that the hotel is taking significant steps to enhance environmental awareness, not only through operational processes but also through training and awareness projects involving both guests and employees. The hotel's sustainability strategy is built on key pillars such as reducing plastic use, waste management, preserving cultural heritage, collaborating with women producers and cooperatives, and supporting biodiversity.
Finally, Lara Barut Collection’s Quality Manager, Gülbahar Ölmez, reiterates the hotel's commitment to leading the sustainability transformation in the tourism sector, concluding with these words:
"As we continue to expand our green energy investments to reduce our carbon footprint, we have completed the installation process of our Grey Water Treatment Facility and are now in the permitting phase. This system highlights the importance of environmental responsibility in the tourism sector by promoting efficient water usage. In line with our goal of adding value to both nature and people, we will remain steadfast in our sustainability efforts."
Lara Barut Collection continues to stand out for its environmental commitment and serves as an inspiration in the field of sustainable tourism.