Ankara, the capital city of Türkiye, faces several environmental challenges, including air pollution, waste management, and the impacts of climate change. To address these worries, various initiatives have been applied, focusing on sustainability and pollution reduction.
Primary Environmental Concerns in Ankara:
1. Air Pollution: Ankara has experienced significant air quality issues, with pollutants such as particulate matter and sulfur dioxide posing health risks to residents. Studies have shown that the spatial and temporal variations of these pollutants, underlining the need for effective control measures.
2. Waste Management: The city generates substantial amounts of waste, requiring efficient disposal and recycling strategies to prevent environmental degradation.
3. Climate Change Impacts: Ankara is vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including temperature surges and altered precipitation patterns, which can intensify existing environmental issues.
Initiatives Implemented to Address These Issues:
1. Ankara Green City Action Plan:
Launched in 2021, the GCAP aims to tackle environmental challenges through targeted actions in areas such as climate mitigation, energy consumption, transport, water and waste management, biodiversity, air quality, and urban planning. The plan outlines 28 specific actions to improve the city’s sustainability performance.
2. Mamak Landfill Waste Management Project: This project focuses on recycling and waste-to-energy processes. Approximately 85% of the waste at Mamak Landfill is recycled, while the remaining 15% is converted into ash for use in road construction and cement production. Additionally, algae produced at the site is converted into biodiesel, showing us innovative approaches to waste management.
3. Ankara Climate Change Action Plan: Developed to align with national targets under the Paris Agreement, this plan outlines measures for combating climate change, aiming for a 21% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. It underlines the importance of urban areas in climate action, given the high proportion of the population residing in cities.
4. Ankara Initiative: Launched in 2015, the Ankara Initiative supports global sustainable development by leveraging Türkiye’s experience in land rehabilitation. It focuses on building capacity and sharing best practices, particularly with African countries, to advance Land Degradation Neutrality.
Effectiveness of These Initiatives:
While these initiatives demonstrate Ankara’s commitment to environmental sustainability, their effectiveness varies:
• Ankara Green City Action Plan:
The GCAP has set a comprehensive framework for addressing environmental challenges. However, its success depends on effective enforcement and continuous monitoring. The plan’s alignment with the Ankara Province Local Climate Change Action Plan suggests a coordinated approach to sustainability.
• Mamak Landfill Waste Management Project: The project’s high recycling rate and innovative waste-to-energy processes have contributed positively to waste management in Ankara. The creation of new settlement areas near the landfill and increased public awareness about recycling indicate its wider societal impact.
• Ankara Climate Change Action Plan: By setting clear emission reduction targets, this plan provides a strategic direction for the city’s climate action efforts. Its focus on urban areas acknowledges the critical role cities play in addressing climate change.
• Ankara Initiative: This initiative has enhanced international cooperation and capacity building in land rehabilitation. By sharing Türkiye’s successful practices, it contributes to global efforts in achieving sustainable land management.
In conclusion, Ankara has implemented several community environmental initiatives to promote sustainability and reduce pollution. While these efforts have shown positive outcomes, ongoing evaluation and adaptation are needed to address the city’s evolving environmental challenges effectively.