Turkish scientists spearhead bold Arctic restoration mission amid climate crisis

A team of Turkish scientists is embarking on a mission to develop engineering solutions using scientifically validated methods to restore damaged lands in the Arctic region.

Led by Orhan Ince, an environmental engineering faculty member at Istanbul Technical University (ITU) and head of the Microbial Ecology Group, the 60-member team will conduct field research aimed at improving areas degraded by natural and human activities, ensuring sustainable land use.

Ince, who also serves as the scientific director of the TerrArctic Mega Grant Project funded by the Russian Ministry of Science and Higher Education through Tyumen State University, emphasized profound impacts of climate change over the past four decades. He stressed the urgent need to address Arctic degradation to safeguard food and water security.

“Ecological and environmental issues in the Arctic region,” Ince said have required the creation of an emergency action plan as part of the project. The initiative will utilize innovative engineering solutions to develop sustainable land use plans and conduct scientific studies, implementing short, medium, and long-term improvements and services.

The plan aims to rehabilitate degraded areas, enhance soil quality through bio-remediation, and ensure food and water security, ultimately contributing to a healthier world for future generations.

Ince highlighted that the project’s inaugural field visit to the Arctic took place from May 12-31, in collaboration with colleagues from Tyumen State University. He expressed intentions to involve Turkish scientists in the project and commended ITU Rector Ismail Koyuncu for promptly supporting the school’s inclusion in this global initiative through necessary administrative and technical assignments.