Türkiye faces deepening water crisis as drought, mismanagement drain resources
Salt Lake basin sits at intersection of Ankara, Konya, and Aksaray provincial borders and ranks among wetlands important for preserving biological diversity. Low rainfall causes drought in basin, and water level stays low (AA Photo)
Türkiye is facing an escalating water crisis, with experts warning that declining water resources and environmental mismanagement could lead to severe consequences in the near future.
The impacts of climate change, excessive water extraction, and poor agricultural practices are accelerating the depletion of the country’s freshwater reserves.
Rising temperatures, prolonged droughts
According to climate experts, Türkiye has been experiencing increasing temperatures and prolonged droughts in recent years. Cem Mutlu Turkseven, Climate Change Project Coordinator, emphasized that Türkiye’s annual average temperatures steadily rise.
“The year 2020 was recorded as the third warmest year in Türkiye’s history, with the southeastern regions being particularly affected,” he stated.
In addition to rising temperatures, decreasing precipitation levels have intensified drought periods, particularly impacting agriculture and water security.
We are witnessing a decline in rainfall and prolonged droughts, which directly threaten food production and water availability.
Cem Mutlu Turkseven, Giresun Governorship E.U. and Foreign Affairs Office Climate Change Project Coordinator
Extreme weather events, rising sea levels
The frequency and intensity of extreme weather events are also increasing. Storms, floods, and tornadoes are becoming more common, causing significant damage to infrastructure and endangering lives. Furthermore, global warming is contributing to rising sea levels, putting coastal cities such as Antalya at risk of flooding and erosion.
“Global temperature increases are causing sea levels to rise, which heightens the risk of flooding in coastal regions. These areas must implement urgent adaptation strategies,” Turkseven noted.
Loss of wetlands, biodiversity
Wetlands, which play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, are disappearing at an alarming rate. Erol Kesici, Scientific Advisor to the Turkish Association for the Conservation of Nature, emphasized the gravity of the situation.
Türkiye has lost nearly two Marmara Sea’ worth of wetlands over the past 50 years due to mismanagement, urbanization, and agricultural expansion.
Erol Kesici, Scientific Advisor to the Turkish Association for the Conservation of Nature
Protected wetlands under the Ramsar Convention are also facing degradation. Lakes such as Seyfe, Kuyucuk, and Meke have completely dried up, while Sultansazlığı and other wetland ecosystems are experiencing severe shrinkage due to pollution and excessive water extraction.
“Many critical ecosystems are on the brink of collapse, endangering both biodiversity and local economies dependent on these water sources,” Kesici stated.
Water scarcity threatens agriculture, public health
The agricultural sector, which heavily depends on water availability, is already experiencing the effects of dwindling water supplies. Erratic rainfall patterns and increased irrigation demand have put immense pressure on Türkiye’s freshwater reserves.
“With less rainfall and higher temperatures, water-intensive crops are becoming unsustainable. This could lead to food shortages and rising costs,” Turkseven explained.
Water pollution further compounds the issue, affecting both drinking water and agricultural irrigation. Contaminated water sources pose serious health risks, particularly in rural areas with limited access to clean water.
Water quality is declining, and if we do not act now, access to safe drinking water could become a major crisis.
Cem Mutlu Turkseven, Giresun Governorship EU and Foreign Affairs Office Climate Change Project Coordinator
Urgent measures required
Experts agree that immediate and sustainable measures are necessary to mitigate the effects of the water crisis. Key recommendations include:
- Promoting water conservation and efficient irrigation techniques
- Investing in renewable energy and sustainable water management
- Expanding wastewater treatment and recycling systems
- Strengthening environmental regulations to prevent pollution
- Encouraging public awareness campaigns on responsible water use
Türkiye has ratified international agreements such as the Green Deal and the National Climate Change Strategy. However, the effective implementation of these policies remains a challenge.
“Strategic plans are in place, but their success depends on nationwide cooperation and strict enforcement,” Turkseven emphasized.
