Ecological Challenges and Climate Change in Türki̇ye: Risks, Sustainable Development and Adaptation Strategies

This article examines the principal environmental challenges facing Türkiye in the context of climate change and considers policy options for strengthening ecological security and sustainable development. Based on a qualitative review of international assessments and national climate policy documents, the study analyses water stress, drought, extreme heat, wildfires, floods, coastal risks, biodiversity loss and greenhouse-gas emissions. It discusses the relationship between climate vulnerability and economic sectors, particularly energy, agriculture, urban infrastructure and tourism. The analysis highlights the importance of combining mitigation measures with adaptation planning, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, integrated water management, climate-resilient agriculture, early-warning systems and nature-based solutions. Türkiye's 2024–2030 climate mitigation and adaptation plans provide an institutional framework, while implementation depends on coordination among national and local authorities, businesses and communities. The article concludes that an integrated, evidence-based approach can reduce climate risks while supporting economic resilience and a fair green transition.