Author: cevmuhendislik.web | Date: April 3, 2026

An event held at Ondokuz Mayıs University on March 22, as part of World Water Day, delivered important messages on the protection and sustainable management of water resources. Organized in collaboration with the Environmental Problems Application and Research Center and the Department of Environmental Engineering, the program attracted strong participation from academics, public institution representatives, and students.

The opening speech was delivered by Prof. Dr. Nurdan Gamze Turan, Director of the Environmental Problems Application and Research Center and Head of the Environmental Engineering Department. In her remarks, Turan emphasized that water is not only essential for daily life but also a critical resource for ecosystem continuity, food security, and economic sustainability. She highlighted that increasing population, industrialization, and climate change are intensifying pressure on water resources both globally and in Türkiye, drawing particular attention to the growing risk of drought in recent years.

Turan also noted that climate change is causing irregularities in precipitation patterns, threatening both surface and groundwater resources. She underlined the need for integrated water management approaches and stressed that, alongside individual awareness, institutional and policy-level actions are of great importance. She added that universities play a key role in generating scientific knowledge and raising public awareness.

Following the opening, Fatih Güler, Head of the Planning, Project, Investment and Construction Department at SASKİ General Directorate, delivered a conference titled “The Future of Water.” In his presentation, Güler pointed out the escalating global water crisis and emphasized that water is increasingly becoming a strategic resource. He noted that Türkiye is not a water-rich country and that the amount of available water per capita is steadily decreasing.

Güler also addressed ongoing efforts in Samsun, providing detailed information on infrastructure projects implemented by SASKİ, including drinking water supply, reduction of water losses, and wastewater treatment investments. He emphasized that protecting water resources requires not only new investments but also the efficient use of existing resources and the prevention of waste.

Additionally, Güler highlighted that wastewater reuse, rainwater harvesting, and advanced treatment technologies will play a more prominent role in future water management. He stressed the responsibility of local administrations in this regard and underlined that public awareness efforts are just as important as technical investments. He noted that water conservation should become an integral part of daily life.

The event was also attended by Günday Kara, Head of the Wastewater Treatment Department at SASKİ, along with many academics and students. Throughout the program, participants gained comprehensive insights into the current state of water resources, associated risks, and potential solutions.

During the Q&A session at the end of the conference, students and participants had the opportunity to ask questions about water management, local practices, and individual conservation methods. The responses provided by experts contributed to increasing awareness and interest, particularly among young participants.

This meaningful event, organized within the scope of World Water Day, once again highlighted that protecting water resources is a shared responsibility of all segments of society. The program concluded by reinforcing the importance of sustainable water management and raising awareness among participants.