As part of the EU-funded Climate Change Adaptation Grant Program, the Nature Conservation Center (DKM), in partnership with the General Directorate of Forestry (OGM) and IUCN, has been implementing the project “Forest Ecosystem Services for Social Resilience in the Istanbul Regional Directorate of Forestry.”
Our aim is to enhance awareness and capacity on forest ecosystem services and to integrate climate change adaptation perspectives into forest management in one of the most densely populated and urbanized regions of Turkiye. Istanbul and the Thrace region not only host critical biodiversity but also provide essential ecosystem services such as clean water supply, carbon sequestration, soil protection, and recreational opportunities for millions of people.
So far, the project has achieved several milestones:
- Spatial database development: We created a comprehensive database on forest ecosystems, their services, existing pressures, and potential climate change impacts, providing a foundation for evidence-based management. 10 vulnerable areas were identified through analysis and modeling, serving as a basis for adaptation planning and awareness activities.
- Capacity building for forestry staff: A series of workshops and trainings were organized with forestry branch managers across 10 forest management directorates, focusing on ecosystem services, biodiversity, and climate adaptation strategies.In addition, in September, further training will be held with managerial staff from 30 regional directorates to strengthen institutional capacity at a national level.
- International knowledge exchange: A technical visit to Spain-Barselona was organized to learn from best practices in ecosystem services and climate adaptation, and the lessons gained are being integrated into the climate change adaptation of forests within the Istanbul Regional Directorate.
- Stakeholder engagement: Beyond forestry staff, we actively reached out to municipalities, local farmers, schools located near vulnerable forest areas, and local communities. These interactions helped to share project findings, raise awareness about ecosystem services, and promote nature-based solutions as tools for resilience.
- Awareness and communication: A dedicated project website — istanbulormanlari.org — was launched to provide open access to project activities and outputs. Visitors can explore information on Istanbul’s forests, ecosystem services, vulnerable areas, as well as updates from meetings, workshops, and field activities carried out within the project. In the coming period, the website will also host short videos, posters, and practical guides produced under the project to further raise awareness and engage diverse audiences..
Currently, we are finalizing a Climate Change Adaptation Strategy for the Istanbul Regional Directorate of Forestry, which will serve as a guiding document for sustainable and climate-resilient forest management in the region.
Our experience shows that positioning ecosystem services as a bridge between science, policy, and society not only strengthens institutional capacity but also builds stronger connections with local stakeholders and citizens. We believe this integrated approach is key for fostering both ecological sustainability and social resilience.