At the meeting, the current status and ongoing efforts regarding coastal and environmental issues and Blue Flag matters within the borders of Antalya were discussed and evaluated.
Following the presentation regarding the “Inventory Study on the Detection of Sources Polluting Seawater and the Detection of Marine and Swimming Water Quality Pollution and Solution Proposals in Antalya Province,” which was prepared by the Provincial Directorate of Environment and Forestry under the instructions of Antalya Governor Dr. Ahmet Altıparmak,
-Swimming Water Quality,
-Blue Flag,
-Blue Flag Seawater Monitoring Studies in Our Province,
-Sampling and Analyses,
-The current status of the districts regarding waters discharged into the sea and marine pollution in Our Province (Gazipaşa, Alanya, Manavgat, Serik, Merkez, Kemer, Kumluca, Finike, Demre, Kaş) and solution proposals for the identified problems, which were addressed during the meeting that involved a mutual exchange of information;
-Emphasizing that the necessary work must be carried out to prevent the disruption of the existing ecological balance in our seas and rivers,
It was emphasized that the criteria regarding the Blue Flag will be much stricter after 2012, and since the water analyses of the past 4 years will be taken into account, all relevant organizations and sectors must take their precautions starting from today.
It was noted that relevant public institutions and organizations must work in a coordinated manner on this issue.
It was also emphasized that facilities similar in nature to ASAT's Thermal Drying Plant must be urgently constructed in our province regarding the disposal of treatment sludge, and that since all kinds of waste (solid waste, wastewater, pesticides, etc.) thrown into dry or flowing streams are carried to the seas, causing marine pollution, the relevant institutions must carry out the necessary improvement and precautionary works.
Additionally, Governor Altıparmak requested that the waste reception points in ports, marinas, and shelters where marine vessels used in maritime transportation and tourism activities berth or anchor be improved and their functions increased.
It was stated that meticulous work must be carried out by relevant public institutions, primarily municipalities, to ensure the frequent cleaning of solid waste along the highways' coastlines.