OMU environmental scientist underlines the strategic importance of protecting the Black Sea

Prof. Dr. Nurdan Gamze Turan of Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU) emphasized the critical role of seas in regulating the climate system and preserving biodiversity, stating that “a significant portion of pollution generated by land-based activities reaches the seas through rivers and drainage systems, threatening both ecological balance and human health.”

Prof. Dr. Turan, Head of the Department of Environmental Engineering at the OMU Faculty of Engineering and Director of the Environmental Problems Research and Application Center (ÇEVSAM), stated that the widespread adoption of a sustainable lifestyle is essential for addressing environmental challenges. Speaking within the framework of Türkiye Environment Week, which begins on June 5, World Environment Day, she noted that this year’s theme, designated by the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, is “Clean Sea, Clean World.”

“Within the scope of this theme, the objectives are to protect marine ecosystems, prevent marine pollution, enhance understanding of the relationship between climate change and marine environments, and promote ocean literacy across society,” she said.

“The impacts of population growth and climate change”

Discussing the factors threatening marine and coastal ecosystems, Prof. Dr. Turan stated:

“Covering approximately 70 percent of the Earth’s surface, seas play a vital role in regulating the climate system, preserving biodiversity, and sustaining human life. However, population growth, unplanned urbanization, industrialization, inadequate waste management practices, and the impacts of climate change are placing significant pressure on marine and coastal ecosystems.

A considerable share of pollution resulting from land-based activities reaches the seas through rivers and drainage systems, posing risks to both ecological balance and public health. As a university located on the Black Sea coast, the protection of marine environments is of strategic importance for our region. Preserving the biodiversity of the Black Sea, ensuring the sustainable management of coastal areas, preventing marine pollution, and promoting the efficient use of water resources are among the fundamental components of future environmental policies.

Our university continues its efforts in environmental sustainability through education, research, and community engagement activities. Within ÇEVSAM, research is conducted on water quality monitoring, waste management, circular economy applications, the environmental impacts of climate change, and the conservation of natural resources. In addition, training programs, seminars, technical visits, and social responsibility projects are organized to enhance students’ environmental awareness.”

“A shared responsibility”

Emphasizing that environmental challenges cannot be solved solely through technical measures, Prof. Dr. Turan highlighted the importance of educating environmentally conscious individuals:

“Universities have an important responsibility not only in producing scientific knowledge but also in raising environmental awareness within society. Encouraging younger generations to develop environmentally responsible lifestyles and embrace sustainability principles will be decisive in creating a more livable future.

The theme ‘Clean Sea, Clean World’ clearly demonstrates that protecting marine ecosystems is also essential for combating climate change, conserving biodiversity, and achieving sustainable development goals. It should not be forgotten that every piece of waste reaching the seas affects not only marine life but also human life.

For this reason, reducing waste generation, expanding recycling practices, protecting water resources, and adopting environmentally friendly lifestyles are shared responsibilities for all of us. It is hoped that Türkiye Environment Week will contribute to strengthening environmental awareness, increasing public consciousness regarding the protection of seas and natural resources, and fostering a culture of collective action for a sustainable future.

Protecting the environment is a responsibility that must be upheld not only on designated awareness days but in every aspect of daily life.”