Antalya:Turkey could face a significant reduction in its water resources, with projections indicating a loss of approximately 25% by the end of this century due to climate change. This warning was issued by Agriculture and Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli at the COP31 UN climate summit, urging for increased investment in climate adaptation and water management strategies.
According to Anadolu Agency – English, Minister Yumakli emphasized that rising temperatures and increased evaporation could severely affect Turkey's water supplies, agricultural production, and food security. Speaking at a high-level meeting focusing on glacier protection and climate resilience, Yumakli highlighted the importance of preemptive risk management rather than reactive crisis responses.
The meeting, part of the 31st UN Climate Change Conference organized by Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Nepal, Pakistan, and Bhutan, gathered senior officials from numerous countries, including Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Lesotho. Yumakli pointed out that the fate of glaciers has far-reaching consequences, affecting not just mountainous regions but also the livelihoods of millions globally. He warned of the potentially irreversible effects of rising global temperatures on glaciers and the broader cryosphere.
Turkey's position in the Mediterranean Basin makes it particularly susceptible to climate change impacts. Yumakli shared findings from scientific studies conducted in 25 river basins across the country, projecting that average temperatures could increase by up to 6 degrees Celsius by the end of the century. This warming, coupled with increased evaporation, poses a significant threat to Turkey's water resources.
Turkey has initiated its National Water Plan for 2026-2035, aiming to enhance water efficiency and bolster climate preparedness. Yumakli stressed the necessity of sustainable financing for protecting mountain ecosystems, emphasizing investments in glacier monitoring, hydrological modeling, and improved water availability assessments.
Turkey's efforts in climate adaptation and water management are supported by a combination of public funding, grants, loans, and public-private partnerships. Notable projects include an $819 million irrigation modernization and water efficiency project with the World Bank and a $600 million flood and drought management initiative. Yumakli also acknowledged the private sector's contribution, with state-owned Ziraat Bank providing loans and subsidies for pressurized irrigation systems.
At COP31, Yumakli called for enhanced international cooperation and shared responsibility, underscoring the critical role of protecting glaciers for future generations' survival and prosperity.