QM Awards
Sustainability Policy
SUSTAINABILITY POLICY
As QM Awards, we consider protecting the environment, strengthening the bond between natural and social life, supporting local people, and leaving a more livable world to future generations as the foundation of our business.
Our sustainability approach is built upon preferring clean and renewable energy sources, increasing energy efficiency, reducing our carbon emissions, using water sparingly, and minimizing waste and loss.
We evaluate the current and future economic, social, cultural, and environmental impacts of every job we undertake, and we consider the needs of our guests, the sector, the environment, and the society we are in.
We protect cultural and natural heritage, create employment, and contribute to the development of our region.
Sustainability Management System: We carry out all these efforts through a written Sustainability Management System that covers environmental, social, cultural, economic, quality, human rights, health and safety, risk, and crisis management issues.
This system includes annual measurable goals, performance indicators, regular monitoring, internal audits, and continuous improvement processes.
Legal Compliance: We comply with all local, national, and international legislation, regulations, and standards.
We maintain an up-to-date list of legal requirements, keep all our permits, licenses, certificates, and authorizations on record, and conduct a legal compliance audit at least once a year.
Environmental Performance:
Local Society and Cultural Heritage: We support the economic development of local people and procure at least 50% of our supplies from our defined local region (50 km).
We protect local culture, traditions, and historical heritage and promote them without commercialization. We actively support community projects.
Decent Work and Human Rights: We pay all our employees a living wage, provide a safe and inclusive working environment, and observe equal opportunity.
We reject child labor, forced labor, and all forms of discrimination. We support the development of our staff through regular training programs.
Guest Participation: We inform our guests about issues such as energy and water saving and waste reduction, and encourage their active participation.
We provide accurate and engaging information about the natural and cultural values of the region.
Bribery and Corruption: We apply a zero-tolerance policy against bribery, corruption, and all kinds of unethical behavior.
Reporting and Transparency: We disclose our sustainability performance, goals, and areas for improvement to the public once a year through a Sustainability Report.
We establish feedback mechanisms and include the views of all stakeholders in the process.
QUALITY POLICY
As QM Awards, we aim not only to meet our guests’ expectations but to raise their satisfaction to the highest level.
We manage our complaint and suggestion system effectively and view every piece of feedback as a development opportunity.
Our goal is to ensure that our guests recognize us as a reliable, timely, comfortable, technology-efficient, and exemplary business through our quality and way of doing business.
To this end, we continuously renew our infrastructure and support our employees and business partners with regular training.
We ensure full compliance with laws and regulations; we maintain our quality standards through independent audits and our own internal audits.
We continuously improve our processes and increase our corporate maturity with the opinions received from our customers, employees, suppliers, and other stakeholders.
This policy is not a commitment on paper for us; it is a part of our belief in continuous development and doing better, applied every day.
GUEST SATISFACTION POLICY
As QM Awards, our goal is to make our guests’ accommodation experience not only comfortable but also unforgettable.
Understanding the expectations of each of our guests, offering solutions suitable for their needs, and making them feel special is a fundamental priority for us.
By supporting our staff with regular training, we ensure they provide smiling, helpful, and professional service at every touchpoint.
We respond quickly to guest requests and work with determination to resolve every problem encountered.
We maintain hygiene and maintenance standards at the highest level in all areas of our facility.
We meticulously clean our rooms and common areas, creating a safe and peaceful environment.
We offer experiences reflecting the culture, cuisine, and natural beauties of the region we are in, and introduce local flavors and activities to our guests.
We attach great importance to the privacy of personal data and always prioritize security.
We prepare flavors that leave a mark on the palate by offering high-quality food and beverage options in our restaurants and bars.
Acting with environmental sensitivity through our sustainability understanding, we adopt practices aimed at protecting natural resources.
We ensure accessibility for our guests with disabilities and care about everyone benefiting from our services equally.
We regularly evaluate our guests’ feedback and continuously improve our services by learning lessons from every comment.
Our goal is not only to meet expectations but to exceed them and always carry the QM Awards experience to a better point.
ACCESS FOR ALL POLICY
As QM Awards, we believe that everyone has the right to vacation equally.
Therefore, we commit to providing accessible tourism services within our means.
We inform our guests and all stakeholders clearly, distinctly, and accurately about the accessibility level of our facility through our website.
We pay attention not only to physical access barriers but also to different disability groups such as visual and hearing impairments, and we include improvements that will facilitate our guests’ holiday experience among our goals in this direction.
We ensure full compliance with legal regulations and follow continuous improvement works in the field of accessibility.
We regularly maintain and repair our infrastructure and access arrangements, and carry out improvements when necessary.
To raise awareness among our employees on this issue, we provide information regarding accessibility in in-service training and encourage them to always be supportive and understanding towards our guests.
It is important for us that every guest can experience a safe, comfortable, and independent stay.
If our current facilities do not fully meet your expectations, our team is always with you to find the most suitable alternatives for you.
Unfortunately, there are some accessibility elements that we cannot fulfill due to physical obstacles arising from the existing structure of the facility.
We are sorry for this situation and sincerely apologize for any inconvenience it may cause to our guests.
CHILD RIGHTS POLICY
As QM Awards, we see children not only as the guarantee of our future but also as individuals with equal rights today.
Protecting their physical, emotional, and mental development; ensuring they grow up in a safe environment free from all kinds of abuse, neglect, violence, and exploitation is a primary responsibility for us.
With this understanding, we do not employ child labor in our institutions under any circumstances and expect the same sensitivity from all our business partners.
We create safe areas where children can express themselves freely, play games, and contribute to their development.
We provide regular training to our employees on the prevention, detection, and correct reporting methods of child abuse.
We make adult supervision mandatory in all activities attended by children and rigorously apply security measures.
We support education, social responsibility, and social awareness projects to raise awareness about children’s rights.
When a suspicious or inappropriate situation regarding children is noticed, we share it with our management without losing time and report it to official authorities when necessary.
The protection of children is not just a policy; it is a conscientious, humanitarian, and social duty.
Acting with this consciousness, we commit to offering a safe and healthy today to the adults of tomorrow.
POLICY ON THE PROTECTION OF VULNERABLE GROUPS
QM Awards believes that all individuals in society have equal rights and sees the protection of social justice as one of its core values.
However, individuals such as people with disabilities, the elderly, children, ethnic minorities, people with mental or physical health problems, refugees, the homeless, the poor, individuals with limited education, those with learning difficulties, substance addicts, or people who may be discriminated against due to their sexual orientation are more affected by social inequalities.
This situation makes it difficult for them to access the most basic rights such as shelter, nutrition, health, and safety.
With this consciousness, QM Awards adopts a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of abuse, neglect, and discrimination towards vulnerable groups.
Regular training is provided to ensure our employees have knowledge and awareness on this issue; competence is gained in detecting, preventing, and reporting abuse to the correct authorities.
Safe and confidential reporting mechanisms are established within the business, all notifications made are meticulously evaluated, and forwarded to official authorities when necessary.
The protection of vulnerable groups is important not only within the business but also in all communities where we operate.
Therefore, QM Awards conducts awareness studies towards these groups by cooperating with local governments, non-governmental organizations, and community leaders, and contributes to the development of protection policies.
It takes active steps to prevent discrimination, create equal opportunities, and support social inclusion.
Our policy is regularly reviewed and updated in line with changing conditions and social needs.
QM Awards believes that this commitment is not just a document, but a set of values that all employees and stakeholders are responsible for abiding by.
Because the protection of vulnerable groups is a requirement of both humanitarian and social conscience.
POLICY ON THE PREVENTION OF ABUSE AND HARASSMENT
QM Awards takes a determined stance to ensure that everyone feels safe, respected, and protected in the working environment, in guest relations, and in interactions with local communities.
Sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, discrimination, unjust pressure, or any kind of inappropriate behavior is incompatible with our business values and is strictly not tolerated.
This commitment is not just a written policy, but a culture that must be kept alive every day.
All our employees participate in an orientation program aimed at preventing abuse and harassment within the first month of their employment.
In these trainings, both current laws and our business’s own ethical standards are conveyed.
Additionally, past and criminal records are meticulously examined during recruitment processes to prevent the re-employment of individuals convicted of such actions.
Any allegation or complaint regarding abuse or harassment is evaluated based on the declaration, impartially, and with care for confidentiality.
Steps to protect the parties are taken immediately, and the process is managed in line with the determined complaint and feedback mechanisms.
Our guests are also informed about the values and sensitivities of the local society and are encouraged to behave respectfully towards the environment they are in.
This policy is reviewed at least every three years and updated when necessary.
QM Awards is aware that preventing abuse and harassment is not only a safety issue but also a promise given to human dignity and social peace.
WOMEN’S RIGHTS AND GENDER EQUALITY POLICY
QM Awards adopts creating a working culture where women and men have equal rights, opportunities, and respect as one of its core values.
Protecting the health, safety, and welfare of all our employees without gender distinction and ensuring they are supported in both their professional and personal lives are among our primary goals.
We encourage women’s participation in the workforce in all our departments and uncompromisingly apply the principle of equal pay for equal work.
Our task distributions, career opportunities, and promotion processes are based entirely on competence and merit.
With this approach, we offer a fair environment where everyone can fully reveal their potential.
Our training policies are arranged to support the professional development of our female employees; opportunities to increase their awareness and leadership capacities are created.
We develop flexible practices and supportive business models that protect the work-family life balance, contributing to women progressing in their careers and being happy in their private lives.
We implement active incentive programs for women to take more part in management cadres.
We strictly do not allow women to be subjected to abuse, harassment, discrimination, pressure, slander, or any injustice.
Being aware of the value they add to the world and our institution, we work with determination to strengthen their presence and ensure their voices are heard more strongly.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY, DIVERSITY, AND GENDER EQUALITY POLICY
QM Awards adopts offering a fair, inclusive, and respectful environment to all its employees and stakeholders as a fundamental principle.
Regardless of race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, language, gender, age, or physical condition; we ensure that all individuals with equal conditions have access to the same opportunities. Our remuneration and promotion decisions are based solely on performance, competence, and efficiency.
Thanks to our open-door policy, we create a working culture where everyone can express their ideas freely.
Inclusivity and diversity are located at the center of our corporate culture, not just in our business processes.
We take active steps to ensure gender equality, strengthen women’s position in business life, and combat prejudices arising from sexism.
Our policy of including women in the workforce, empowering them, and equal pay for equal work is valid for everyone from our employees to our Board Members.
We take care to include members with different ages, genders, education, and experience in our management cadres.
In Board of Directors elections, by giving priority to female candidates among candidates with the same qualifications in terms of knowledge, experience, and competence, we aim for our female member ratio to be at least 25%.
We evaluate the progress made in line with this goal every year and share it with the public.
We observe equal opportunity and inclusivity in all our human resources practices, from recruitment processes to interviews, from performance evaluations to the promotion system.
We offer horizontal and vertical promotion opportunities to support the career development of our current employees and implement development plans to raise future leaders.
We regularly provide training opportunities where they can develop their technical knowledge and competencies.
We strictly stand against any kind of intimidation, discrimination, and harassment that may occur among or against our employees.
We investigate all allegations regarding these issues with confidentiality and seriousness, within the framework of determined procedures.
We support women taking part in decision-making positions in management levels and observe the female-male balance in management.
In this working environment where we adopt a high-performance culture, supporting both the professional and personal development of our employees through training and continuous feedback is one of QM Awards’s most important commitments.
We build all our human resources policies and processes upon these fundamental principles.
SUSTAINABLE PURCHASING POLICY
As QM Awards, we use our purchasing power for the benefit of the environment and society. Our aim is to reduce our environmental impact while raising our service quality, strengthen the local economy, and spread ethical and safe working conditions throughout our supply chain.
This approach is not just a declaration of goodwill; it is our way of working that guides our daily decisions.
Scope
The policy covers all purchases including food & beverage, cleaning and guest amenities, office and paper materials, electrical equipment and tools, furniture-fixtures-FF&E, textiles, maintenance-repair and consumables, marketing materials, software and IT services, renovation/refurbishment materials, and subcontractor/outsourcing services.
Indirect purchases such as events and catering purchases, logistics/transportation, and waste management are also within this policy.
Environmentally Sensitive Purchasing
Local Purchasing
Efficient Purchasing
Implementation and Monitoring
Compliance and Ethics
Continuous Improvement
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM PLANNING AND LOCAL MANAGEMENT CONTRIBUTION POLICY
QM Awards adopts environmental, social, and economic sustainability principles to contribute to sustainable tourism planning and management.
It aims to protect natural and cultural resources, increase the welfare of local communities, and ensure they benefit fairly from tourism.
The business respects the cultural heritage and local values of the region where it is located; it supports local handicrafts, contributes to keeping traditional events alive, and participates in local festivals.
It aims to achieve sustainable tourism goals by cooperating with local governments, non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, and other stakeholders in the tourism sector.
To increase economic development and local benefit, it prioritizes local employment, works with local suppliers, and encourages the active participation of the local people in tourism activities.
Integrating environmental sensitivity into its operation, the business uses eco-friendly cleaning materials, prefers local and organic products, and implements waste reduction and recycling practices.
This policy commits to strengthening QM Awards’s contribution to sustainable tourism and producing long-term benefits in harmony with local governments.
LOCAL EMPLOYMENT AND DEVELOPMENT POLICY
While carrying out its activities as an important part of the tourism industry, QM Awards adopts supporting the local workforce and contributing to the regional economy as one of its main priorities.
This policy aims to increase the welfare of local communities and support their development while ensuring the sustainable growth of the business.
The business takes care to employ local people as much as possible, offering them equal conditions and opportunities to allow them to progress in their careers.
To increase the qualifications of the local workforce, it organizes in-service training and contributes materially and morally to courses and training programs in the region.
By cooperating with local schools, it provides internship and vocational training opportunities, supporting young people in getting to know the tourism sector and developing their vocational skills.
Aiming to establish strong bonds with the community, the business participates in environmental and social responsibility projects, respects local culture and traditions, and plays an active role in the protection and promotion of these values.
Thus, QM Awards acts not only as a tourism business but also as a partner and supporter of local development.
POLICY ON SUPPORTING LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS
QM Awards commits to supporting local and regional entrepreneurs to contribute to the economic development of the region where it operates and to keeping its cultural values alive.
The business cooperates with local entrepreneurs in the development, promotion, and sale of sustainable products and services based on the nature, history, and culture of the region, and offers technical knowledge and training support when necessary.
Local initiatives are primarily followed through the Chamber of Commerce’s “Local Initiatives” list and internet-based local entrepreneur databases.
In collaborations, priority is given to entrepreneurs who add value to the regional economy, such as women’s cooperatives, handicraft producers, and local food and agricultural producers.
With this approach, QM Awards supports the regional economy by giving more space to the products of local entrepreneurs in its supply chain and offers its guests original experiences reflecting the local identity.
LOCAL LIVELIHOODS DEFINITION AND POLICY
QM Awards views the protection and sustainability of local livelihoods in its immediate surroundings as among its priority goals.
In the region where our business is located, the tourism industry, honey production, agriculture (olive cultivation, pistachio, hazelnut), and fishing are among the main livelihoods.
We avoid jobs and practices that could harm these activities and take steps to strengthen the local economy.
Our main policy is to prioritize local producers and suppliers in service and product purchases.
We actively participate in educational studies, meetings with non-governmental organizations, and collaborations for the strengthening of the local economy.
Various risks and preventive activities have been determined to protect local livelihoods.
Against negative changes in local economic conditions, we diversify our marketing strategies and implement programs to increase customer loyalty.
We increase the resilience of our facilities against natural disasters and climate change, create emergency plans, and strengthen environmental sustainability practices.
To adapt to changes in local government policies, we stay in communication with authorities and keep our processes flexible.
Against fluctuations in the local labor market, we support the qualified workforce by cooperating with educational institutions and encourage the development of our employees.
With this policy, QM Awards commits to the protection, development, and transfer to future generations of local livelihoods in cooperation with all stakeholders in the region.
POLICY ON THE PROTECTION AND PRESENTATION OF CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSETS
Cultural heritage is an integral part of our identity, culture, and history. Tangible heritage elements cover historical cities and textures, monumental structures, archaeological sites, movable artifacts (paintings, sculptures, coins, manuscripts), and immovable structures (monuments, protected sites).
Intangible heritage consists of living values such as language, tradition, dance, music, and rituals.
In line with the definitions of UNESCO, ICOMOS, and similar institutions, underwater cultural heritage, natural heritage, and cultural landscapes are also evaluated within this scope.
Our business plans its activities regarding the protection and presentation of cultural heritage assets by adopting the principles of the Law on the Protection of Cultural and Natural Assets No. 2863.
In this direction, we determine the possible impacts of our visitors and supply chain on cultural heritage assets and take the necessary precautions to prevent negative impacts.
We prepare brochures, booklets, and digital content for the promotion of local cultural heritage and present them to our visitors.
We take an active role in projects aimed at protecting cultural heritage by cooperating with local governments, non-governmental organizations, and relevant stakeholders.
We organize training to increase cultural heritage awareness for our employees and business partners, and address this issue as one of the main topics in our sustainability training programs.
We conduct studies for the protection, documentation, and sharing of the cultural heritage inventory belonging to the region, and support the transfer of local culture to future generations.
With this policy, we commit to both the physical protection of cultural heritage assets and increasing social consciousness.
ENERGY POLICY
QM Awards purchases energy-efficient products and services by following technological developments and innovations, and contributes to sustainability by ensuring the efficient use of energy and materials.
It complies with all national and international legal requirements and standards regarding energy, aims to reduce the use of exhaustible natural resources, minimize energy consumption, and keep energy risks under control.
In this direction, we provide regular energy efficiency training to our employees, suppliers, and business partners.
We continuously improve the performance of our energy management system, determine our energy goals, and review them periodically.
In our fleet vehicles, we prefer nature-respecting vehicles with low carbon emissions and environmentally friendly fuel, and support designs that improve energy performance.
By cooperating with all our stakeholders, we create common goals and results in energy management, and establish interactions that will increase energy awareness with our guests, employees, visitors, and suppliers.
We research, purchase, and use energy-efficient products, equipment, and technologies.
WATER SAVING POLICY
To protect our world against possible water risks, we use water efficiently, set goals to reduce water consumption, and update these goals with the principle of continuous improvement.
To fulfill our responsibilities towards nature and our legal obligations, we follow national and international standards, voluntarily carry out studies to reduce water use and improve consumption performance, and monitor the results regularly.
To ensure the participation of our employees, we include water saving in our training programs and cooperate with all our stakeholders in line with common goals regarding water management.
We aim to increase water consciousness and create social awareness together with our guests, employees, visitors, and business partners.
We research, purchase, and use products, equipment, and technologies suitable for water efficiency.
We document our water saving management system, spread it to all departments, update it when necessary, and continuously improve it.
We evaluate water cuts or other emergency risks and plan preventive measures.
We adopt sustainable water use as using water effectively in harmony with the environment without wasting even a single drop.
In this context, we comply with all legal legislation for the development and implementation of methods related to reducing water consumption and the effective and reuse of water.
CARBON EMISSION POLICY
Being aware of the regional and global effects created by global warming, monitoring and reducing our facility’s carbon emissions is one of our fundamental responsibilities.
Our policy implementations are based on the principle of measurement and evaluation and are carried out in accordance with the International Energy Agency “Energy Factors” methodology adopted by the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources of the Republic of Türkiye.
This policy is based on the Hotel Carbon Measurement Initiative (HCMI) methodology developed by the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance and covers all direct (Scope 1) and indirect (Scope 2) emissions owned and controlled by our facility, as well as emissions arising from outsourced laundry services (Scope 3).
Carbon footprint calculations are carried out with monthly data collection. In this context, energy consumption amounts (electricity, natural gas, LPG, etc.), refrigerant usage, data arising from external services, occupancy rates, and meeting-event area usage information are recorded.
The obtained data is reported as total annual carbon footprint (tCO₂e), daily carbon footprint per occupied room (kgCO₂e/room), and hourly carbon footprint per meeting area (kgCO₂e/m²/hour) using HCMI calculation tools.
Calculation results are published in the sustainability report every year and shared transparently with corporate customers.
To reach the determined annual reduction targets, energy-efficient lighting and air conditioning systems, renewable energy use, water-saving technologies, waste management improvements, and awareness training are implemented.
The policy is reviewed and revised every year in line with updates in the HCMI methodology, legal regulations, and our facility’s sustainability goals.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS AND PROMOTION POLICY
Our business commits to providing accurate and up-to-date information about local public transport and alternative transportation options to support our guests’ accommodation experiences in line with environmental sustainability principles.
In this context, we keep informative brochures, materials, and interactive maps containing public transport lines, routes, ticket prices, and conditions of use on our web pages and within the facility.
Our staff is regularly informed to be able to guide our guests on public transport, bicycle use, and pedestrian transportation.
Our guests are told about the environmental and economic advantages of using public transport in urban transportation; guidance is provided on alternative transportation routes to the city center, the coast, shopping points, and other important destinations.
Our ease of transportation is supported by routes accessible by walking, minibus and public bus stops, bicycle paths, and electric bicycle rental points in the immediate vicinity.
Thus, we contribute to our guests’ environmentally friendly transportation preferences and help reduce carbon footprints.
WATER MANAGEMENT AND WASTEWATER POLICY
QM Awards acts in line with the Water Saving Policy for the protection and efficient use of water resources.
This policy covers the regular measurement, monitoring, reduction, and continuous improvement of water consumption.
The current water risk status in our region has been determined using the World Resources Institute – Water Risk Atlas, risk analysis has been performed, and a Water Management Plan has been created.
This plan includes goals for the measurement, tracking, and reduction of water use, and regular reporting.
All legal requirements and regulations are meticulously complied with for the sustainable management of water resources.
The water used at QM Awards is obtained from legal and sustainable sources such as mains water or permitted wells.
The total amount of water consumed per guest/night is regularly calculated and reported.
Measurement and recording processes are carried out via Sopex – Water & Energy Records Tables.
In line with our water-saving goals, water-efficient equipment, non-drip fixtures, automatic sensor faucets, and dual-flush cistern systems are used throughout QM Awards.
Sheets and towels are changed based on guest requests. Our employees and stakeholders are regularly informed and encouraged regarding the reduction of water use.
QM Awards activities are carried out in a way that does not harm the sea, lake, and other water ecosystems.
Potential impacts have been evaluated in risk analysis and necessary precautions have been taken.
To ensure wastewater does not harm the environment, all disposal processes are carried out in accordance with local regulations and legal requirements.
Cooperation is made with relevant institutions for the safe removal and treatment of wastewater.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND WASTE MANAGEMENT POLICY
QM Awards commits to minimizing the effects of wastes arising from its activities on the environment, preventing pollution, and keeping effective waste management at the center of its sustainability understanding.
To reduce waste generation at the source, it minimizes the consumption of single-use materials; it prioritizes reusable, recycled, and environmentally friendly products in purchases.
All generated wastes are separated at the source as hazardous and non-hazardous and managed in accordance with recycling processes.
Hazardous substances and chemicals are processed with special procedures so as not to harm the environment and human health.
Separated wastes are stored safely in areas suitable for their characteristics, delivered only to licensed firms in accordance with legal requirements, and all disposal records are kept completely.
Waste management performance is regularly monitored, measurable goals are determined, and continuous development is aimed by providing necessary training and awareness studies to employees.
POLLUTION MINIMIZATION POLICY
QM Awards aims to minimize environmental pollution during our operations and support sustainable tourism by reducing our negative impacts on the natural environment.
This approach covers all our employees, contractors, and guests. We view the prevention of pollution through energy and water saving, waste management, reduction of emissions, and environmentally friendly practices as our responsibility.
QM Awards is aware of all types of pollution that may arise from its activities. Air pollution, water pollution, soil pollution, noise, light pollution, and waste-originated environmental impacts are taken into account in the planning and implementation processes of our operations.
We take the necessary precautions to minimize the negative effects of these sources on ecosystems, human health, and local communities.
Processes such as energy use, transportation activities, waste management, chemical substance use, food, and material procurement are each evaluated as a potential pollution source, and continuous improvement is aimed in these areas.
This awareness aims not only to reduce our environmental burden but also to disseminate environmental consciousness among our guests and employees.
We inform our employees and guests about the effects of environmental pollution and ways of prevention, and convey methods of protecting the environment during tours.
We use energy-efficient lighting and devices, prefer low-flow faucets and showerheads, and prevent unnecessary energy and water use.
We reduce our waste at the source, recycle, reuse, and offer alternatives instead of single-use plastics.
We maintain our vehicles regularly, prefer low-carbon emission transportation options, and strictly prohibit waste discharge into waterways.
We use environmentally friendly products in cleaning processes, minimize the use of hazardous substances, and dispose of them safely.
We follow current practices by cooperating with local authorities and environmental organizations, and ensure compliance with all environmental legislation.
We regularly monitor our environmental performance, review our status of reaching our goals every year, and update when necessary.
BIODIVERSITY PROTECTION POLICY
QM Awards is aware that biodiversity is indispensable at every level of life – from genes to species, from species to ecosystems – for a sustainable future.
Therefore, it determines and monitors the direct or indirect effects of facility activities and processes in the supply chain on ecosystems, species, and natural habitats, and takes the necessary steps to minimize negative effects.
Species under threat of extinction, practices threatening animal welfare, and materials posing a risk to forests are avoided.
Projects are developed to ensure the continuity of natural resources; active participation is provided in studies aimed at protecting biodiversity carried out by non-governmental organizations and local governments.
Creating an inventory of biodiversity belonging to the region, protecting endemic species, and supporting agricultural activities that are the livelihood of the local people are among the priority goals.
In this context, the efficient use of resources and minimization of waste generation are also observed with importance.
Regular training is given to ensure employees and business partners in the supply chain become conscious about the importance of biodiversity.
The subject of biodiversity is included in sustainability programs, and stakeholders are also expected to show the same sensitivity.
In cases of possible risk or violation, action is taken quickly, corrective measures are applied, and the effectiveness of these measures is regularly monitored.
All these works are carried out with the goal of transferring a sustainable environment and healthy ecosystems to future generations.
WILDLIFE AND BIODIVERSITY PROTECTION POLICY
QM Awards adopts preserving the integrity of the ecosystem and biological diversity, keeping the natural heritage alive in a balanced way, and developing it for future generations as a fundamental principle.
We determine and track the effects of our activities on wildlife and biodiversity, and aim to protect the integrity of species, habitats, and ecological functions.
We take into account the requirements of national and international legislation in ensuring animal welfare, and inform all our stakeholders about not hunting living things facing extinction, not trading them, and not using products obtained from these living things.
We do not support, exhibit, or sell protected species or any product produced from these species.
We do not support any activity involving unacceptable practices regarding biodiversity and wildlife as foreseen by laws, nor do we participate in such activities.
In renovation, construction, and similar activities, we take the necessary precautions so that flora and fauna, especially species under threat of extinction, are not harmed.
We cooperate with local governments and non-governmental organizations and share our suggestions to protect endemic plants located on land and in the sea in our region and not to negatively affect the living conditions of all living things.
We guide our guests, stakeholders, and employees not to use products obtained from living things facing extinction, and increase their awareness through in-service training.
We stand against the use of captive wildlife in shows for commercial gain or personal pleasure, and we do not become a part of such organizations.
We take preventive measures against invasive species and carry out control and eradication studies.
In chemical usage, we apply appropriate dosages so as not to harm the soil, water, flora, and fauna, and manage this process under the guidance of our landscape architect and agricultural engineer.
We mobilize all our means to prevent hazardous wastes and pollutants threatening natural life from contacting the environment, and work to ensure the healthy continuity of the ecosystem.
POLICY ON COMBATING INVASIVE SPECIES
QM Awards commits to preventing the entry and spread of invasive species to protect the biological diversity and health of the ecosystems we operate in Türkiye.
To minimize our negative effects on the natural environment, we follow best practices while ensuring full compliance with relevant Turkish legislation, and increase the awareness of our staff and guests on this issue.
We regularly educate our employees on the identification, effects, and prevention of the spread of invasive species based on the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry guidelines.
We also inform our guests about behaviors that will prevent the spread of invasive species during tours and activities.
We ensure that equipment and vehicles are cleaned and disinfected in accordance with the standards of the General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks before and after being used in different regions.
We offer facilities where our guests can clean their shoes, clothes, and equipment.
We avoid the use of foreign plant species in our landscaping and restoration works, and regularly monitor our activity areas for the presence of invasive species.
In case of any detection, we intervene rapidly and apply the methods suggested in the Turkish Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan.
By working in cooperation with local governments, conservation organizations, and relevant state institutions, we possess constantly up-to-date information about invasive species threats and effective combat methods.
Observations of invasive species and all work done on this subject are recorded.
Any detection of invasive species is immediately reported to the authorities in accordance with the protocols determined by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.
The policy is reviewed every year and updated in line with new scientific data and best practices.
WILDLIFE INTERACTION POLICY
QM Awards acts with the consciousness that we are a part of the natural beauties and rich wildlife of the region where we operate.
As a guest of this ecosystem, we respect both the right to life of the living things in the region and the safety of our guests.
We always approach wildlife from a safe distance and take care not to disturb natural habitats.
We avoid contacts that will disturb the peace of animals, change their behaviors, or create stress, and we never feed them.
To protect the natural balance, we use only designated paths and approved routes, and stay away from stepping on coral reefs, damaging sensitive vegetation, and any action that would lead to habitat degradation.
We regularly review the ecological effects of our activities and take steps to minimize waste production and make resource use efficient.
Our aim is to leave only positive traces in nature.
We inform our employees and guests about local wildlife and responsible interaction methods, and carry out nature tours accompanied by guides who are experts on this subject.
We cooperate with nationally respected conservation organizations such as WWF-Türkiye and Doğa Derneği (Nature Association), and support habitat restoration and similar projects.
We develop our practices by taking into account the feedback coming from our guests and personnel, and continuously update our wildlife interaction policy with the most current scientific information and best practice examples.
With this approach, we commit to strengthening our nature-respecting and sustainable tourism understanding.
ANIMAL HEALTH & WELFARE POLICY
QM Awards adopts an animal-friendly tourism understanding and bases its principles on treating animals with respect and compassion in all its activities.
We work with our business partners in Türkiye for the protection of animal welfare throughout our activities and do not support any practice that does not adopt high welfare standards.
Our policy relies on the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare framework. Our fundamental principles are that animals are free from hunger and thirst, have access to nutrition suitable for their species and clean water, reside in appropriate shelter and a comfortable living area, are protected from pain, injury, and disease, can exhibit their natural behaviors, and are kept away from fear and stress.
We do not offer or support activities that violate the natural life rights of animals, such as dolphin shows or swimming with dolphins in captivity.
We inform our staff and guests especially about the complex needs of dolphins and the ethical problems that captivity will cause.
We support organizations working for the protection of stray animals in Türkiye and observe that working animals (horses, donkeys, etc.) have access to adequate nutrition, water, rest, and veterinary care.
We adopt the principle of giving minimum disturbance to animals in wildlife observation in their natural environment and encourage responsible viewing experiences.
We regularly review our policy and update it in line with scientific developments and ethical approaches.
In this way, we adopt a sustainable and responsible approach showing that tourism and animal welfare can exist together.
WILDLIFE HUNTING POLICY
QM Awards adopts the prevention of wildlife hunting as a fundamental principle to protect natural life and support a sustainable environment.
Although our region is far from hunting tourism, we prevent all activities that could harm wild animals both in the business area and its surroundings, prevent the degradation of habitats, and actively support wildlife conservation projects.
Hunting is strictly prohibited in the business and its surroundings. We fight against illegal hunting and take necessary legal measures within the framework of relevant laws and regulations.
In accordance with the Land Hunting Law No. 4915 and relevant legislation, we arrange or assist only in permitted wildlife observation tours and photography and filming.
Our guests and employees are regularly informed about the protection of wildlife and the environmental-social effects of hunting.
By cooperating with local communities, we encourage increasing sensitivity towards natural resources and active participation in the protection of wildlife.
As management, we keep investing in projects for the restoration and improvement of natural habitats around us, protecting the living areas of wild animals, and increasing species diversity among our priority goals.
This approach is an integral part of our sustainable tourism understanding.
POLICY ON THE PROTECTION OF THREATENED SPECIES
QM Awards and its business partners do not allow the purchase, exhibition, presentation, or trade of threatened species at any stage of their activities.
This principle applies in all areas from business operations to the supply chain, from tours to events, from marketing studies to personnel and visitor interactions.
No living thing, product, or part belonging to any species whose generation is under threat within the business — such as ivory, feathers, skin, shell, salep — is used as decoration, food, beverage, or souvenirs.
A written declaration stating that the products they provide do not contain threatened species and, if available, a certificate is requested from suppliers; these commitments are verified with annual audits.
Tours are carried out only through TURSAB-approved local agencies, and participants are informed to limit contact with threatened species.
Contents that encourage, are wrong, or misleading regarding these species are not included in promotional materials.
Personnel receive training on threatened species at least once a year.
Departments such as housekeeping, kitchen, and front office are given special training with scenarios suitable for their jobs.
The implementation of the policy is regularly monitored with observation forms and checklists; employees can report possible violations to senior management.
The policy, reviewed by the committee every year, is updated with the approval of the management.
