Global climate activist group Friday for Future has accused the Turkish government of severe environmental degradation, describing it as “ecocide” in a recent Instagram post. The organisation, known for its strong stance on climate action, has raised alarm over Turkey’s impact on one of the world’s most historically rich and ecologically vital regions, the Fertile Crescent.
The post highlights Turkey’s water management policies, which the group asserts are driving widespread drought. It also condemns the extensive deforestation caused by the burning of thousands of hectares of forest. Activists warn that these practices are devastating the region’s fragile ecosystems.
“While we struggle to limit the climate crisis and ecological disaster, the Turkish state is actively destroying nature and ecosystems in one of the most fertile regions of the planet,” Friday for Future said. They also accused Turkish policies of disrupting indigenous communities, making it increasingly difficult for them to live in harmony with their environment.
The Fertile Crescent, which covers parts of present-day Turkey, Syria, Iraq and Iran, is known for its rich biodiversity and agricultural potential. Historically, the region was a cradle of early civilisation and is considered crucial to global ecological health.
Fridays for Future, founded in August 2018 by Greta Thunberg and fellow young activists, has gained international recognition for its grassroots climate advocacy. Sparked by Thunberg’s initial protest outside the Swedish parliament, the movement rapidly spread across social media, igniting a global youth-led climate strike
The organisation’s call to action, using the hashtag #StopTurkeysEcocide, urges immediate attention and intervention to stop the environmental damage and protect both the region’s ecosystems and its indigenous people.
