As part of Environment Week, Ondokuz Mayıs University’s (OMU) Department of Environmental Engineering, the Center for Environmental Issues Research and Application (ÇEVSAM), and the Environmental Society organized a meaningful event that left a lasting impression on hearts.

In this special gathering held at a nursing home, students and faculty members raised awareness about environmental issues and shared emotionally uplifting moments with the elderly.

The event began with a sapling planting activity in the nursing home's garden. Each planted tree symbolized environmental awareness and the strengthening of intergenerational bonds, serving as a green legacy for future generations. The saplings, planted by the hands of the elderly, became touching symbols of love bridging the past and the future.

Prof. Dr. Nurdan Gamze Turan, Director of ÇEVSAM and Head of the Department of Environmental Engineering, emphasized the significance of the event in her speech, stating:

"We wanted to celebrate Environment Week not only by focusing on nature but also by connecting with the community. These kinds of gatherings not only raise environmental awareness but also help keep our values alive."

The garden of the nursing home turned into a concert venue thanks to outstanding performances by Volkan Sağlam, conductor of the Atakum Municipality Turkish Classical Music Choir, and a student at OMU’s Faculty of Fine Arts, Eren Karadeniz from the same faculty, Prof. Dr. İbrahim Özkoç, Environmental Engineering graduate Nuri Beyhan, and soloist Oya Verim. Songs performed with live music and joyful games, and shared cheerful moments warmed hearts and made for an unforgettable day.

The event also included small gifts and refreshments for the participants, facilitating sincere dialogues and friendships between the young and the elderly. True to the spirit of Environment Week, this special event touched both nature and human hearts, leaving an indelible memory for all involved.