Antalya eyes role as climate-tech hub ahead of hosting COP31 in 2026

The city of Antalya on Türkiye's Mediterranean coast is preparing to host the United Nations COP31 climate conference in November 2026, an event that could position the region as a global hub for climate-resilient agricultural technology. With Türkiye ranking as the world's fourth-largest greenhouse operator, Antalya's extensive protected farming sector is set to be a focal point for discussions on sustainable food production.

Expert Highlights Water and Energy Efficiency Innovations

Nuri Çağlayan from Akdeniz University's Greenhouse Technologies Center (ASETAM) emphasized that "climate-friendly agriculture is no longer just an option; it is a necessity." He detailed how smart greenhouse systems can slash water use by up to 50%, while advanced closed-loop models can achieve 90% savings compared to open-field farming. Çağlayan also pointed to agrivoltaic systems, where special greenhouse coverings generate solar power while providing beneficial shade, improving both energy efficiency and crop yields in Antalya's hot climate.

Antalya's Dominant Role in Turkish Agriculture

Antalya is not only a global tourism destination but also an agricultural powerhouse, accounting for approximately 40% of Türkiye's total covered agricultural land. The province houses roughly 300,000 decares of the nation's total 800,000-decare greenhouse area. This infrastructure supports a significant portion of Türkiye's exports of tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and other vegetables, underpinning the region's economic resilience.

Strategic Opportunity for Global Leadership

Hosting COP31 presents a strategic opportunity for Antalya to showcase its agricultural innovations and attract international investment and expertise in green technology. "Antalya could emerge as a key center for the application and development of climate-friendly greenhouse technologies," Çağlayan stated. The conference, which will convene nearly 200 countries, will focus on implementing the Paris Agreement, making the city's practical advancements in sustainable agriculture a highly relevant case study for the world.