Under the leadership of Emine Erdoğan, the "Water Efficiency Mobilization" introduction meeting initiated by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry was held at the Beştepe National Congress and Culture Center.

In her speech, Emine Erdoğan emphasized the importance of protecting water resources and passing them on to future generations, stating that this meeting brings everyone together for a nationwide movement.

Emine Erdoğan announced, "We are launching the National Water Efficiency Mobilization with the coordination of our Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry," and expressed her gratitude to those involved.

She highlighted the significance of water, stating, "Even if we were to fall into the illusion that the riches that have nourished this land for thousands of years will always exist, our resources are not limitless. Due to decreasing rainfall and unconscious water consumption, our agricultural lands, wetlands, rivers, streams, and groundwater sources are threatened by drought. We must remember that each drop of water that dries up means the destruction of nests for fish, birds, plants, and many living beings in this ecosystem. We must remind ourselves that the struggle against drought is, in fact, a struggle for survival, as we humans cannot survive without water for even three days. With the Water Efficiency Mobilization we have initiated from this perspective, I believe we will nurture hope for a livable future, drop by drop."

Emine Erdoğan pointed out that the world's available freshwater makes up less than one percent of total water resources, stating, "While water is a fundamental human right, globally, three out of ten people lack access to reliable water."

She noted that the reduction, pollution, or inaccessibility of water leads to numerous economic and political problems, with food production being the foremost risk, as 77% of water is used in agriculture. She warned that while humanity struggles with mass migrations triggered by conflicts, it is predicted that by 2030, 700 million people will be displaced due to water scarcity.

Emine Erdoğan continued by stating that the alarming situation worldwide is not different in Turkey, explaining, "In countries like Turkey, where infrastructure systems have been established, access to clean water is so easy that people forget water is not an unlimited resource. Research shows that 40% of our population believes our country is water-rich, which is unfortunately not true. Turkey is under 'water stress' with an annual per capita usable water amount of 1,519 cubic meters. Due to the increasing population and uncontrolled water usage, this amount is expected to decline to 1,120 cubic meters by 2030. When it drops below 1,000 cubic meters, we will face water scarcity. If we do not take precautions, it is estimated that our water resources will decrease by 25% in the near future. Within the next eight years, nearly half of our population and 78% of irrigated agricultural areas may face 'water shortage' risk. These figures tell us that we need to urgently establish a balance between our seemingly limitless needs and our limited resources. With the mobilization we have initiated, we want to invite everyone to heed this call from the world. Let us collectively embrace our future with the belief that 'Water is the homeland.'"

Emine Erdoğan emphasized the importance of viewing nature not just as a heritage from the past but as a trust from the future, noting that protecting water is a crucial part of combating climate change.

She pointed out that a significant portion of water use occurs in agriculture, mentioning that guides for alternative water efficiency practices such as "rainwater harvesting" and "greywater use" have been prepared. She stated, "In cooperation with our ministries, action plans have been created for all our water basins, and the pilot 'Gediz Basin Action Plan' has begun to be implemented. To promote the measures taken, the 'Water Efficiency Strategy Document and Action Plan' has been put into action. Additionally, the goal is to increase irrigation efficiency from 49% to 75%."

Emine Erdoğan expressed her hope for the "National Water Efficiency Mobilization" to grow and spread worldwide from Turkey, stating, "With the new techniques suggested by clean production and efficiency technologies in industry, it is possible to achieve a 50% water savings in production. Businesspeople and sector representatives have significant responsibilities here. Remember that every drop you save from waste will return as a lifeblood to our future, children, nature, and living beings. While institutional steps are essential, we need a comprehensive mobilization in which every citizen contributes at an individual level. Instead of asking, 'What can I do?' let us ask, 'What can I do?' Together, I believe we will overcome this challenge."

She explained that simple measures in water usage can prevent a daily loss of five water jugs per person, adding, "I firmly believe that every citizen who learns they can save nearly 35 tons of water at home each year will become a carrier of this mobilization."

Emine Erdoğan highlighted the importance of local governments in the "Water Efficiency Mobilization" just as in the "Zero Waste Project," stating, "With the support of our municipalities, citizens will be more involved in combating the climate crisis at home, at work, and in factories. I hope our local governments will fully support the Zero Waste and Water Efficiency Mobilizations we have initiated to protect our earthly trust."

She emphasized the significance of water in Turkish culture, stating, "Water is a mercy sent to earth as a gift from the Creator. This perspective, which sees water as a precious treasure, reflects the spirit of our mobilization."

Addressing the culture of consumption and waste that has enveloped the world, Emine Erdoğan remarked, "Today, we must return to our civilization that has made preservation its principle and rebuild our consciences. When we achieve this, saving 18 liters of water for a water bottle or 10,700 liters for a pair of jeans will become a human responsibility for all of us. Only then will we understand that every drop of water left in a glass and every discarded item consumes not only the water on earth but also us. I call upon all sensitive individuals who believe that patriotism means protecting every drop of our country’s water and who work today to ensure that future generations do not go thirsty. Be a drop for the Century of Turkey. With the strength we gain from the globalization of the Zero Waste movement that we take pride in for our country, I hope the 'National Water Efficiency Mobilization' will flourish in our country and spread worldwide."

The program featured a mini-concert by the Turkish Music Research and Promotion Group (TÜMATA), and a promotional film about the Water Efficiency Mobilization was also shown. The Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Vahit Kirişci, the Minister of Industry and Technology, Mustafa Varank, and the Minister of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change, Murat Kurum, also delivered speeches.

Minister Kirişci presented Emine Erdoğan with a traditional Maraş craftwork of a water jug figure as a gift.

Emine Erdoğan presented appreciation plaques to individuals who demonstrated good practices in water efficiency.

The event was also attended by the Minister of Family and Social Services, Derya Yanık.