‘Astronaut man’ in Türkiye uses recycled outfit to promote clean water awareness

In Mersin, a local entrepreneur, Zeki Konuk, has been drawing attention to the importance of water conservation and clean water by walking the streets in an astronaut costume made from recycled materials.

Astronaut costume made from recycled materials
Konuk, who has worked in drinking water technology and purification systems, was inspired by a documentary he watched about astronauts’ efforts to obtain drinking water in space. This inspiration led him to develop a project focused on water awareness.
After six months of work, Konuk created the astronaut costume using materials such as waste water pipes and broken motorcycle helmets.

Raising awareness with an innovative approach
Konuk went a step further by integrating a water purification device into the costume. He now takes to the streets to raise awareness about the importance of water conservation and clean water.
Konuk can be seen distributing water in his unique costume at local squares and streets, encouraging people to consider the value of water.

‘We need to value our water‘
Konuk, who is known as “Astronaut Man” in the city, explained to an AA reporter that his mission is to highlight the significance of water. He emphasized that everyone has a responsibility to conserve water.
“Through this costume, I aim to promote clean water and encourage people to drink water,” Konuk said. “I go to the beach with my outfit, offering purified water to people while educating them on the importance of water. People are often surprised when they see me and stop to take photos.”

Public response: An unusual yet valuable initiative
Local resident Halil Bayraz shared his thoughts on Konuk’s project. “I was driving by and stopped when I saw him. At first, I thought he was an astronaut, but then I realized he was working on water purification,” Bayraz said. “It’s a wonderful project, and I believe it could contribute to better water use awareness.”
Konuk’s innovative approach to raising awareness about water conservation and its value has certainly left a lasting impression on the people of Mersin.