Status: Ongoing

Project Duration: Sept 2025- Sept 2026

 

Challenge

The earthquakes in 2023 have intensified the pressures on the Asi River Delta, Milleyha Wetland, and Samandağ coast. These areas are already facing threats from uncontrolled development, waste dumping, and climate change. They are critical habitats for migratory birds, sea turtles, and unique wetland species, all of which are now under increased stress due to unregulated construction and debris disposal, along with diminishing natural buffers.

Solution

Building on the first phase of the Asi River Basin Environmental Vision Plan (previously funded through our earthquake region fund), the initiative will strengthen public awareness and stakeholder engagement through a targeted campaign combining science, advocacy, and storytelling. The campaign promotes alignment with the global 30×30 biodiversity goal, aiming to protect 30% of terrestrial and marine ecosystems by 2030.

 Project Deliverables

• Public launch of the Vision Plan through press conferences in Antakya, Samandağ, and Istanbul.

• Short documentary videos screened locally and disseminated online.

• A social media campaign reaching at least 250,000 people.

• Scientific fieldwork: water quality monitoring and eDNA biodiversity analysis in Milleyha and the old Asi riverbed.

• At least 1 updated management plan or strategy integrating Vision Plan outputs.

• Engagement with at least 5 local and national institutions for adoption of 30×30-aligned measures.

 

About the organisation: Antakya Environmental Protection Association aims  to raise awareness of critical environmental issues, from local challenges in Antakya to global climate change, in order to foster environmentally conscious communities. They work to protect cultural heritage, prevent the depletion of water resources, and highlight eco-crisis areas through public campaigns, legal action, and educational activities.