Prof. Dr. Fatih Konukcu, a faculty member of the Department of Biosystems Engineering at Namık Kemal University (NKÜ) in Tekirdağ, highlighted the negative effects of climate change on all living beings during a conference on Sustainable Agriculture Practices and Seed Production held at the university’s Rectorate Hall. He stated that 2.5 billion people worldwide do not have access to clean water, and every year 300-500 million tons of heavy metals and pollutants are discharged into water sources. He also mentioned the disappearance of numerous fish and bird species, and the significant increase in population and water consumption.
Konukcu pointed out that in the last 50 years, 36 lakes have completely dried up, while 14 lakes are facing the threat of drying up. He emphasized the irregularity of rainfall patterns, with normal drought occurring every 5-6 years and severe drought every 12-16 years. He expressed concerns about the future water scarcity in Thrace, as a significant portion of drinking water in the region is sourced from groundwater.
In terms of water resources, Konukcu highlighted that Thrace currently has a deficit of 141 million cubic meters of water. He emphasized that although this deficit may not be felt due to the use of groundwater, there will be an estimated deficit of 500 million cubic meters by 2050 under the best conditions. This projection raises concerns about the sustainability of water resources in the region, urging the need for effective measures to address the impending water crisis.
The conference shed light on the importance of sustainable agricultural practices and seed production in the face of climate change challenges. Konukcu’s insights underscored the urgency of conserving water resources and implementing effective water management strategies to mitigate the impact of climate change on agriculture and the environment. The discussions at the conference highlighted the need for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to address the growing water scarcity issue in Thrace and promote sustainable agricultural practices for a more resilient future.
As a renowned expert in biosystems engineering, Prof. Dr. Fatih Konukcu’s research and advocacy for sustainable agriculture and water management have provided valuable insights for addressing the pressing challenges of climate change and water scarcity. His presentations at the conference have raised awareness about the critical need for sustainable practices in agriculture and underscored the importance of water conservation and efficient use of resources to ensure food security and environmental sustainability in the region. The conference served as a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration among academics, policymakers, and industry professionals to develop innovative solutions for sustainable agriculture and water management in Thrace.
