Urgent "Master Plan" Call by DOKTOB President Okutur for Muğla and Turkey

Evaluating the seriousness of the issue and the urgent measures that need to be taken, Dalaman, Ortaca, Köyceğiz Touristic Hoteliers and Tourism Operators Association (DOKTOB) President Yücel Okutur made vital warnings about the future of the region and gave special statements to mugladatatil.com and habercitv.com.tr.

Known for his deep sensitivity to the environment and nature, Okutur pointed out that temperatures reaching record levels are no longer an exception but have become a constant "new normal," calling upon the public and authorities to take action.

"THE GREATEST DESTRUCTION OF GLOBAL WARMING IS TO NATURE AND OUR FUTURE"

Emphasizing that global warming has become an unavoidable reality in the world we live in, DOKTOB President Okutur highlighted the factors that disrupt the climate balance.

Okutur stated, "Rapid industrialization, unplanned urbanization, use of fossil fuels and the decrease in forest areas have disrupted our planet's climate balance. Melting glaciers at the poles, irregular weather conditions, extreme heat, and prolonged droughts have become part of our daily lives. Rising temperatures directly threaten habitats and ecosystems."

Drying Lakes and Desertification Threat

Touching upon the current impact of the climate crisis on Turkey, Okutur summarized the critical situation of water resources and agriculture with the following words:

• Water Resources are Depleting: "In 2023 alone, 148 of our lakes, both large and small, dried up, and the water levels of more than 40 dams and lakes decreased. Drinking water sources are seriously threatened, and this situation could even lead to future water wars."

• Food Security and Agriculture: "Drought is impacting agriculture. Irrigation problems make food production difficult and increase costs. While agricultural lands are rapidly shrinking, rising food prices deeply shake the economy."

• Collapse of Marine Ecosystems: "Carbon dioxide emissions absorbed by the oceans turn the water acidic. This acidic environment puts many marine species at risk of extinction."

Referencing the United Nations' 2025 report, Okutur stated that 88% of Turkey's land areas could face desertification risk by 2030. He warned that this process could trigger much greater sociological problems such as scarcity, disease, and climate migrations.

Prescription for Salvation: "Master Plans and Sustainability are Essential"

The most crucial part of the statements by the experienced sector figure Yücel Okutur was the proposed solutions. He indicated that individual awareness, as well as the agriculture, tourism, and industry sectors, are compulsory, and outlined the strategies Muğla and Turkey must urgently implement as follows:

• Urgent Environmental Order and Master Plans: "Master Plans" compatible with the carrying capacities of cities and tourism regions, in harmony with nature, must be urgently prepared. People's living, housing, and social areas should be strictly determined according to these environmental order plans.

• Growth Focused on Agro-Tourism (Farm Tourism): Agro-tourism models that do not consume nature but produce and protect it should be prioritized in tourism areas.

• Education and Awareness: Environmental consciousness should be instilled at all levels, from schools to universities, and seminars and panels should be held for all segments of society.

• Renewable Energy and Zero Waste: Renewable energy sources like solar energy (PV) should be promoted. Recycling, zero waste practices, and controlled collection of chemical/electronic wastes must become mandatory.

• Eco-Agriculture and Smart Irrigation: Traditional irrigation should be abandoned in favor of drip irrigation systems, and local and sustainable products should be supported. Balanced sustainable eating habits should be introduced to society.

"COMPREHENSIVE FIGHT AGAINST FOREST FIRES IN 2026"

Making a special note on the bleeding wound of Muğla, forest fires, Okutur recalled that the risk of forest fires has reached its peak due to increasing temperatures and drought, stating: "We must protect the ecological system and biodiversity. I hope there will be no forest fires in 2026, and I invite authorities and the local population to be highly sensitive in taking all kinds of measures beforehand."

Yücel Okutur concluded his words with a hopeful message about the future:

"With the hope that 2026 will mark a turning point leaving behind the climate crisis and problems; I wish that the 102nd year of our Republic brings abundance, health, and good days to our beautiful country." (Bilal Baykan)