Freshwater - Drivers and pressures (Turkey)

The most important pollution factor of Turkey's rivers is discharging of domestic, industrial and agricultural wastewater to the rivers. Unfortunately, there are still many highly polluted rivers in Turkey. Another reason for the pollution of rivers in Turkey is erosion. As a result of soil erosion, phosphorus with solid materials is carried away from the agricultural area to the surface waters which cause eutrophication. Population increase, urbanization, industrial activities, pesticide use and excess use of fertilizers are other factors that rapidly increase river pollution.

 Figure 5: Wastewater Treatment Status according to Wastewater Amount

 Source: Wastewater Treatment Action Plan for 2008-2012

 Figure 6: Rates of Wastewater Treated by Treatment Plants

 Source: Turkish Statistical Institute