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Declaration of Uludağ as a National Park
Uludağ, covering an area of 13,024 hectares in Bursa, was declared Turkey’s first national park in 1961. This marked a significant step toward the protection of natural life in the country. -
Stockholm Environmental Conference
With the United Nations' first World Environmental Conference held in Stockholm, the concept of “environment” gained international prominence. This event helped lay the groundwork for environmental awareness and sustainability initiatives in Turkey. -
Establishment of the Ministry of Environment
On August 9, 1991, the Ministry of Environment was established by decree law, integrating environmental protection into state policy. The new Ministry took comprehensive responsibilities for preventing pollution and conserving natural resources, forming the official backbone of environmental governance. -
Greenpeace Turkey Begins Operations
Greenpeace Turkey began operating in 1992 as part of the Greenpeace Mediterranean office. It launched environmental campaigns focused on nuclear energy, pollution, and marine protection, significantly contributing to raising environmental awareness in the country. -
Establishment of TEMA Foundation
On September 11, 1992, environmentally conscious businessmen Hayrettin Karaca and A. Nihat Gökyiğit founded the Turkish Foundation for Combating Soil Erosion, Reforestation and the Protection of Natural Habitats (TEMA). With the slogan "Don’t Let Turkey Become a Desert," TEMA initiated widespread reforestation and environmental education campaigns. -
Oya Baydar’s Novel Köpekli Çocuklar Gecesi (Night of the Children with Dogs)
In this dystopian novel, Oya Baydar critiques the anthropocentric worldview and addresses issues related to climate change. The book became a significant work in spreading environmental thought within Turkish literature. -
Global Climate Strike
Led by Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, the Global Climate Strike spanned 139 countries and had a strong impact in Turkey. Thousands of young people gathered in cities like Istanbul, Ankara, İzmir, and Antalya to demand urgent climate action. -
Founding of the Green Party (Yeşiller Partisi)
Founded on September 21, 2020, the Green Party of Turkey emphasized environmental policies, sustainable development, and climate justice. It aims to strengthen green politics and public environmental awareness in Turkey.