Modern agricultural practices are preparing Konya for climate change

Dr. Murat Karakoyunlu, the President of the Konya Plain Project (KOP) Regional Development Administration, spoke at the Climate Change and the Future of Cities workshop held in Konya. He shared information about the activities of the Regional Development Administration with the participants, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive, local, and planned transformation solutions for meeting human needs for water, agriculture, and production in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dr. Karakoyunlu discussed various topics during the workshop, including climate change, soil and water management, the development of modern and alternative production varieties, improvement of on-site production and consumption mechanisms, productivity, and the enhancement of production conditions in cities and related rural areas. He emphasized the need to increase the share of producers in the value chain, minimize climate change-related risks, address regional imbalances, and reduce the burden on cities.

He highlighted the importance of closed systems in water management, stating that the KOP Regional Development Administration, as a subsidiary of the Ministry of Industry and Technology, supports development-focused activities with multi-sectoral projects. Dr. Karakoyunlu mentioned that the administration prioritizes irrigation-based projects and productivity-focused initiatives in the region, aiming to minimize the impact of climate change. The administration takes measures to promote modern agricultural practices, disseminate best practices, and minimize the effects of climate change in the region.

Dr. Karakoyunlu emphasized that climate change, when combined with the structural problems of the region, could lead to more destructive consequences. He stated that the policies established by the government, supported by local elements, guide the actions of the administration. The measures taken by the administration focus on soil and water management, agricultural production, livestock, energy, and human capacity development.

Acknowledging the significance of inter-agency collaboration, Dr. Karakoyunlu mentioned the crucial contributions of institutions such as the State Hydraulic Works (DSİ) and the Provincial Directorate of Agriculture to address regional issues. He highlighted the importance of local production and consumption support, stating that projects aiming to solve the city's needs with local resources reduce logistical costs, increase job opportunities in rural areas, and encourage participation in production, thus minimizing social problems like migration.

In conclusion, Dr. Murat Karakoyunlu was presented with a drawing by primary school students on the topic of energy efficiency.