At MAKÜ Science Cafe, "Towards COP31: Water and Sustainability" was discussed.

Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University (MAKÜ) Science Cafe hosted the event “Towards COP31: Water and Sustainability.” The event addressed global water crisis, water management, and sustainability issues.

Water crisis and social dimension

Sustainability Coordinator Chair Dr. Lecturer Kübra Ertan Türe emphasized that water resources are gradually decreasing. Referring to the World Water Day themes determined by the United Nations each year, Türe stated that the theme for 2026 is “water and gender equality.”

Türe expressed that approximately 1.4 billion people worldwide do not have direct access to water and have to carry it, stating that this burden largely falls on women and children. According to research, women and children undertake about 70% of the responsibility for carrying water, with this rate reaching up to 85% in some regions.

Access to clean water and risks

Türe stated that approximately 2 billion people do not have access to clean drinking water, listing the main reasons as climate crisis, population growth, and pollution of water resources. She mentioned that industrial waste, agricultural chemicals, and pesticides threaten water resources.

The concept of Day Zero was also discussed at the event. Türe stated that this concept emerged during the water crisis in Cape Town in 2017-2018, expressing that it refers to the day when water will not flow from taps if necessary measures are not taken. It was conveyed that this risk was averted in Cape Town thanks to strict water restrictions implemented.

Water consumption and risks in Turkey

Türe pointed out that the Mediterranean climate zone, which includes Turkey, is at risk, also addressing individual water consumption. She stated that the average daily water consumption per person in Turkey is approximately 200 liters, and in crisis scenarios, this amount could drop to 25 liters. It was expressed that living with 25 liters is possible but very limited, requiring careful planning even for basic needs.

Sustainable water use

The importance of rainwater harvesting and recycling systems was emphasized at the event. Türe expressed that water of drinking quality should not be used in agriculture, and instead, evaluating alternative water resources is critical for sustainability.

Participants were reminded that conscious use of water and increasing individual awareness will play a significant role in preventing future water crises.

COP and water management

The topics addressed within the Conference of the Parties (COP) are gathered under 9 main headings. Especially water management, food systems, drought, climate change, and ocean protection are highlighted in connection with critical areas. While awareness is created through educational activities, the active role of governments and local administrations is also emphasized.

Dr. Lecturer Kübra Ertan Türe stated that many waters are lost due to the mismanagement of water resources, emphasizing that efficient use of water, conscious consumption in agriculture and industry, recycling, and rainwater harvesting are of vital importance. Türe said, “Water is not just a resource, but also a strategic element for the sustainability of life. Without proper management and planning, it is not possible to protect our existing water resources.”

Limitations of water resources

Türe pointed out that most of the water on Earth is unusable, stating that approximately 97.5% of the world’s water is saltwater, and only 2.5% is freshwater, with a large portion of this freshwater being frozen in glaciers and polar regions. It was noted that the amount of water that people can directly access is extremely limited.

The event was attended by YÖK Vice President Prof. Dr. Naci Gündoğan, Rector Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Dalgar, Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Oğuz Gürsoy, and the people of Burdur.

The event concluded with the presentation of certificates of appreciation to the participants.