Ministry unveils major forest project

The Agriculture and Forestry Ministry has announced an extensive project aimed at protecting forests from the destructive effects of the climate crisis and global warming.

Speaking at the launch of the "Climate Resilient Forestry Project" on May 30, Minister İbrahim Yumaklı stated that the initiative will span five years and also support forestry activities in regions that received major damage in last year's earthquakes in the country's south.

The World Bank will provide a $400 million loan for the forest project, the minister said.

Yumaklı emphasized their collaboration with the World Bank on various fronts related to climate change, noting that the total value of their agreements with the organization for other projects amounts to $1.5 billion.

The new efforts are set to include significant sub-projects for establishing fire-resistant forests and covering underdeveloped areas with forestry potential, he said.

"Housing development for forest villagers, scientific beekeeping, support for animal and plant production and the installation of rooftop solar energy systems for forest villagers are also part of the project," Yumaklı said.

"Many aspects could be enumerated, but it is important that the common goals of the World Bank and our ministry in combating climate change lead to the same destination and produce similar outcomes."

Delivering a speech at the event, Bekir Karacabey, a high-ranking official from the ministry, stated that the issue of carbon footprint will become one of the most crucial factors affecting not only societal but also commercial life in the future.

"Like the world, Türkiye is preparing for this matter very seriously. Our greatest capital here will be our forest areas and woodlands."...