Zero Waste
Turkey's Environment Week, which will be conducted by the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change, will start on June 5. As part of the activities, the importance of preventing sea pollution and protecting coastal areas will be conveyed to everyone from ages 7 to 70 across all 81 provinces.
According to the Presidential General Circular on "Turkey Environment Week," published in the Official Gazette on May 21, 2022, with the signature of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the procedures and principles for events to be held by the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change in all 81 provinces have been determined.
During Turkey Environment Week, which will take place from June 5 to June 9, the importance of protecting seas and the natural environment, the relationship between seas and climate change, and the environmental aspects of the connection between coastal areas and land will be emphasized.
Environment Week activities will be celebrated under the theme "Clean Sea, Clean World," contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water and the International Ocean Sciences Decade program.
Memorial Wreath Ceremony
On June 5, a memorial wreath will be laid in the sea for all citizens affected by the earthquake, with participation from city administrators and the public in coastal provinces and suitable water surfaces in non-coastal provinces.
Activities in Coastal Provinces
Various activities will be organized in coastal provinces to prevent sea and coastal pollution, while in other provinces, events will be held to raise awareness about environmental pollution in line with the local natural environment. The importance of oceans, which cover approximately 70% of the Earth, will be highlighted.
Water Sports Events
Water sports events will be organized in accordance with the Clean Sea and Clean World theme, including swimming, synchronized swimming, canoeing, rowing competitions, and diving, where safety conditions allow.
Marine Waste Cleanup
In collaboration with fishing-related institutions, organizations, and NGOs, a marine waste cleanup will be initiated during Environment Week at a designated fishing harbor, with participation from fishermen. Prizes will be awarded to the top three fishing boats that collect the most marine waste by weight in one day.
Children's "Marine Inspectors"
Activities aimed at children will emphasize the concept of "marine inspectors," educating them about the Blue Homeland, the richness of marine resources, and the connection of life to the sea. Various discussions, demonstrations, and conferences will focus on issues such as "Marine Pollution from Terrestrial Activities," "Zero Waste Blue," and "Preserving Biological Diversity."
Competitions for Students
Competitions will be held for primary and secondary school students under the theme "Let’s Keep Our Seas Clean for a Clean World," including painting contests focused on both the sea surface and underwater themes, as well as poetry and composition contests for middle and high school students.
Community Engagement
Efforts will be made to create platforms for scientists and the public to enhance marine literacy and raise awareness about effective ocean management and the threats facing marine ecosystems. Bicycle tours will be organized in coastal cities and city centers without coastlines to promote awareness of clean seas and climate change.