Sustainability at Six Senses Kaplankaya
Built into rock formations and designed with green roofs and biophilic walls, the resort is home to many of Turkey's botanic species (nature's aromatherapy of olive, cypress, oleander, sage and thyme). As shared custodians of this extraordinary setting, we're careful to conserve the raw beauty of our secluded beaches, dramatic landscape, and local heritage. The resort’s farms and gardens play an important role in our Eat With Six Senses approach to food and drink. Through growing much of our own fruit and vegetables on-site, and sourcing from local farms and vineyards, we can ensure that our guests enjoy fresh, whole, seasonal, and high-quality food that's grown-in, not flown-in, reducing packaging and transportation impacts. Our composting machine produces nutrient-rich soil for our garden. The glass crusher in our kitchen reduces the volume of waste bottles by up to 80 percent. Treated wastewater is reused for landscaping irrigation and our heat recovery cooling system reduces our LNG consumption and carbon footprint. We continue to apply our Plastic Freedom and Zero Waste philosophy, which we launched in 2016 by eliminating plastic straws. We use marble dispensers to eliminate plastic containers for liquid soap, shampoo, conditioner, and hand and body lotions in guest rooms, common areas, and our spa. We invite our younger guests to learn about upcycling and recycling as well as gardening – ask us what programs we're running during your stay! If you’re lucky, you might even spot some of the local wildlife such as woodpeckers, rabbits, foxes, and even the odd wild boar.
Environmental Responsibility
As we are committed to wellness and sustainability, we are continuously developing new initiatives to maximize the health and well-being of our guests and the local ecosystem.
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Marine Conservation
Six Senses Kaplankaya and the Kaplankaya Facilities Management Sustainability teams launched a marine conservation initiative starting with a large-scale clean-up across 12 kilometers of coastline completed through 176 dives. Through the Sustainability Fund, over 10 tons of tires, ropes, and ghost nets were removed. In 2025, the project expanded to habitat restoration with 20 artificial reef blocks installed and sponge transplantation at Anhinga Beach, alongside volunteer clean-ups in Akbük Harbor, collecting 1.5 tons of waste, reinforcing a long-term commitment to cleaner seas and enhanced biodiversity.
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Local Climate Warriors
Local Climate Warriors is an initiative conducted by Six Senses Kaplankaya in collaboration with our neighboring village schools. The program aims to build a brighter future for children by teaching respect for nature and the environment, whilst improving learning facilities. We support cleaning, renovation, and maintenance of nearby Kazıklı Village school, in addition to welcoming students from local villages to the hotel to experience sustainability initiatives beyond the classroom. During their Climate Warrior visits, school children have the opportunity to participate in training and hands-on activities to learn about climate change and environmental awareness, and how to work towards becoming local sustainability advocates.
Social Responsibility
Working directly within our community, we make positive impacts by employing and purchasing locally and by giving back through education and sustainability awareness projects.
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Sustainable Tourism Support Scholarship
In 2025, the Six Senses Kaplankaya Sustainability Fund supported the Sustainable Tourism Support Scholarship in partnership with TEV (Turkish Education Foundation). Through this initiative, scholarships were provided to 10 students pursuing education in tourism, helping them continue their academic journey and prepare for future careers in the industry. This contribution reflects Six Senses Kaplankaya’s ongoing commitment to supporting education and fostering the next generation of tourism professionals.
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Supporting Local Women's Livelihoods
We host a monthly Local Market, supporting village women who produce goods and handicrafts. We offer guidance on the legal processes to formalize their businesses and provide social media training to expand their visibility. Additional support includes funding essential equipment and educational programs to enhance their skills. Our handmade soft toy mascot, Zeytin the Black Bird, available for guests to take home, also contributes proceeds to support more women. In 2025, 20 women benefited from this initiative.
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Improving Lives: Animal Shelter and Sterilization
Caring for stray animals and supporting population management strengthens community well-being. In 2025, 76 cats and dogs received essential sterilization and vaccinations, improving their health and safety. The project enhances the lives of stray animals while promoting public health through healthier pets, safer neighborhoods, and a more sustainable ecosystem. We also funded a dedicated examination room at the Didim Animal and Nature Preservation Society shelter, our project partner, to ensure continued care and long-term impact.
