Istanbul is a unique bridge that connects not only continents but also some of the world’s most significant ecological routes. Every spring and autumn, if you look up at the sky, you will witness this extraordinary geography hosting a magnificent migration spectacle.

Hundreds of thousands of storks, eagles, buzzards, and other soaring birds traveling between Europe and Africa avoid long trans-marine flights by utilizing the thermal air currents over the Bosphorus. This spectacular passage in the sky highlights our city’s indispensable role in the global ecosystem.

What Are We Doing for Our Guests in the Sky? As a center in the heart of Istanbul that hosts thousands of international attendees each year, we know that our guests are not limited to humans. We recognize our responsibility to ensure that these weary winged travelers using our city’s route can continue their journey safely.

In line with our sustainability vision:

• We strive to minimize light pollution to prevent disrupting the navigational senses of night-migrating birds.
• We protect the green spaces surrounding us and support biodiversity through eco-friendly landscaping.
• With our energy-efficient infrastructure, we actively contribute to the fight against climate change, which is the greatest threat to migratory birds.

As we bring the world together in Istanbul, we take pride in being respectful hosts to this incredible journey in the sky.