Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kiraz Erciyas Yavuz, a researcher at Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU) Ornithology Research Center, emphasized that wetlands are among the most threatened ecosystems today due to both direct and indirect factors such as rapid population growth, unsustainable production and consumption, technological development, and the adverse effects of climate change.
In her statement for World Wetlands Day, celebrated annually on February 2 with a different theme, Dr. Yavuz announced that this year’s theme is "Protecting Wetlands for Our Shared Future."
Highlighting the significance of raising awareness about the importance of wetlands, which are rapidly disappearing worldwide, Dr. Yavuz stated, "There are over 2,400 wetlands designated as Ramsar sites globally under the Ramsar Convention, covering more than 2.5 million square kilometers. Among these, 14 are located in Türkiye: Kızılırmak Delta, Sultansazlığı, Seyfe Lake, Uluabat Lake, Manyas Lake, Gediz Delta, Burdur Lake, Göksu Delta, Akyatan Lagoon, Yumurtalık Lagoon, Kuyucuk Lake, Meke Maar, Kızören Sinkhole, Nemrut Caldera.
As designated by the General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks, these wetlands are recognized as Ramsar sites due to their rare and unique characteristics, biodiversity, and rich species diversity."
Emphasizing the critical role of wetlands for human well-being and biodiversity, Dr. Yavuz continued, "Although wetlands cover only 6% of the Earth’s land surface, they are home to or serve as breeding grounds for 40% of all plant and animal species. Wetland biodiversity is vital for our health, food supply, tourism, and employment. However, wetlands are currently the most threatened ecosystems due to factors such as rapid population growth, unsustainable production and consumption, technological advancements, and the negative impacts of climate change. In just 50 years, 35% of the world’s wetlands have been lost. Human activities causing wetland loss include drainage and landfilling for agriculture and construction, pollution, overhunting, resource overexploitation, invasive species, and climate change."
Dr. Yavuz noted that OMU is among the partners working on the conservation of Ramsar sites in the Mediterranean region, stating, "The OMU Ornithology Research Center is a partner in a project led by the Tour du Valat Research Institute, with financial support from the French Development Agency. The project focuses on the conservation, sustainable use, and restoration of Mediterranean wetlands. Activities include educational programs to raise awareness about wetlands and their functions, the development of effective monitoring methods, steps toward wetland conservation and restoration, and capacity-building initiatives. Promoting activities for wetland conservation and increasing collaborations are crucial for ensuring a sustainable future."
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