The Gediz River Basin Workshop in Salihli focused on urgent environmental issues and collaborative solutions for the river's future.
The Gediz River Basin Workshop took place in Salihli, Manisa, to address critical environmental challenges facing the Gediz River, which spans 401 kilometers and crosses four provinces.
The river, originating from Inner Western Anatolia and flowing to the Aegean Sea, is vital for agriculture, settlements, and ecosystems in the region. It is not only a water source but also a crucial living system connected to wetlands, agricultural plains, groundwater, and coastal ecosystems. The alluvial plains along the river are among the most fertile agricultural areas in the Aegean.
Galip Ener, General Coordinator of the Nature Association, opened the workshop, emphasizing, "The Gediz River is one of the most important rivers extending from Anatolia to the Aegean and is the backbone of a holistic ecosystem that has developed over millions of years. The Gediz Basin, with its diverse ecosystems, is a critical ecological corridor in Turkey, essential for biodiversity, water regulation, and climate adaptation. Every pressure on the Gediz River directly affects the future of the entire basin."
Attorney Yıldıray Çıvgın presented the threats to the Gediz River within Manisa, highlighting issues such as incorrect agricultural policies, wild irrigation practices, industrial pollution, and uncontrolled geothermal activities. He stated, "The Gediz River and its basin have faced irreversible damage for years. The treatment status of industrial facilities along the river and heavy metal pollution from geothermal plants pose serious threats. New geothermal plants and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) decisions are being made without considering the basin's carrying capacity. The Gediz River is a habitat for thousands of living beings, and we urge all relevant institutions to protect the Gediz Basin based on scientific data and international agreements, putting an immediate end to this destruction."
The primary goal of the workshop, organized by the Nature Association and the Salihli Environmental Association, was to enhance understanding of the ecological structure of the Gediz River Basin, identify pressures on the basin, and develop collaborative solutions to mitigate these pressures.
GEDIZ RIVER BASIN FUTURE WORKSHOP AGENDA
13:00 – 13:15 | Opening Speeches
14:15 – 14:45 | Factors Threatening the Gediz River within Manisa
14:45 – 15:15 | Coffee Break & Refreshments
Question and answer session and participant contributions.
Source: www.denizhaber.com
