Turkish officials have confirmed they will maintain the all-inclusive policy.
The all-inclusive system in Turkish hotels remains unchanged, as relevant departments in the country are currently studying the issue, but no legal or governmental mechanisms are in place to enforce a cancellation.
According to reports, discussions about modifying the buffet formats and potentially reducing food waste have been ongoing, but these discussions do not equate to an all-inclusive cancellation. The official stance from Turkish authorities and tour operator associations is that only hotels themselves can choose to abandon the all-inclusive model.
The popularity of the all-inclusive system among tourists and its integration into the Turkish tourism industry present strong economic and service incentives to maintain it. However, concerns about waste management and storage conditions have been raised, with the all-inclusive system being recognized as a contributor to increased food waste.
Environmental advocates and some restaurateurs have highlighted this as a problem, suggesting that modifying or replacing the all-inclusive buffet model could help reduce waste. Yet, any decision regarding the all-inclusive system will be made with the interests of tourists in mind, ensuring the growth and prosperity of Turkey's tourism industry.
The Agricultural and Food Policy Council of the Presidential Administration is preparing a report on reducing food waste, but it does not have the power to prohibit or mandate changes to the all-inclusive system at this time. The president of Turkey personally ensures the growth and prosperity of the tourism industry, and any decisions regarding the all-inclusive system will be made with extreme caution.
It is worth noting that only 35% of the total waste produced consists of fruits, vegetables, and bread. The study results will be submitted for consideration by the president, and the Council on Agricultural and Food Policy had proposed a complete abandonment of the all-inclusive system due to waste issues.
However, as of now, no decisions regarding the all-inclusive system in Turkey have been made. The media reports about a government move to cancel all-inclusive appear to be speculative or driven by interest groups rather than official policy. The all-inclusive system in Turkey has been under scrutiny for its impact on agricultural and food waste, but the approach towards it will be made with a focus on its environmental impact and waste management.
Tourists seeking a change in the current lifestyle offered by all-inclusive hotels in Turkey might consider exploring unique travel experiences that prioritize sustainable practices and minimal waste. As conversations continue regarding the management of food waste and storage conditions, potential modifications to the buffet formats could align with the preferences of both tourists and environmental advocates.
