Hosted by the Department of Environmental Engineering of PAU Faculty of Engineering; in cooperation with the Department of Communication and Design of Özyeğin University Faculty of Architecture and Design and the Özyeğin University Bicycle Club, the program addressed drought not only as an academic subject but as an urgent issue directly affecting life, presenting an interdisciplinary perspective.

328-Kilometer Journey for Drying Lakes Becomes Agenda in Denizli

Within the scope of the event, the documentary film titled “Pedaling in Disappearing Waters,” directed by Metin Çavuş and featuring students of the Özyeğin University Bicycle Club, met the audience. The documentary, which focuses on a 328-kilometer bicycle journey carried out around lakes affected by drought in the Mediterranean Region, revealed the dramatic changes in water resources with striking visuals and narration.

Following the documentary screening, the panel titled “Drought and Water Management in a Changing Climate” was moderated by Prof. Dr. Meltem Bilici Başkan. In the panel, Dr. Öğr. Üyesi Metin Çavuş and Arif Çakır from Özyeğin University, Prof. Dr. Ülker Güner and Dr. Öğr. Üyesi Yağmur Meltem Aydın Kızlkaya from PAU Faculty of Engineering, Mustafa Işıldar from Denizli Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, and Ethem Erenler from Denizli State Hydraulic Works 212th Regional Directorate addressed different dimensions of drought. The panel emphasized that climate change is deepening drought, pressure on water resources in Denizli and its surroundings is increasing, agricultural production is under serious risk, and sustainable water management policies have become urgent.

Authorities stated that measures to be taken especially at the local level are of vital importance, underlining the need for efficient use of water and increased awareness activities. Experts who took the floor at the event expressed a common view that “action must be taken without delay in the fight against drought.”

The event was completed interactively with participants’ questions and contributions, and the interest shown by young people and university students in the topic drew attention.

PAU Faculty of Engineering officials stated that through such events organized within the scope of the 50th anniversary activities, the aim is both to bring scientific knowledge together with society and to increase local awareness.