From Children’s Council to Climate Action: A Story of Pride and Progress

Bornova Municipality and the Social Climate Association have signed a cooperation protocol to develop joint projects focused on combating the climate crisis, promoting environmental rights, and creating sustainable living spaces. The agreement, signed by Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki and Social Climate Association President Gaye Tuğrulöz—a former member of Bornova’s Children’s Council—aims to strengthen local climate policies and provide a strong local contribution to COP31, which Türkiye will host. Through this collaboration, efforts will focus on reducing carbon emissions and increasing community climate resilience.

Bornova Municipality and the Social Climate Association have officially joined forces to produce collaborative projects addressing climate change, environmental rights, and sustainable urban development. Signed by Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki, who also serves on the Board of Directors of the Energy Cities Network, and Association President Gaye Tuğrulöz, the protocol represents an exemplary model of participatory local governance.

From Children’s Council Member to Climate Leader

The signing ceremony was marked by meaningful and emotional moments. Mayor Ömer Eşki recalled that his connection with Gaye Tuğrulöz dates back many years:

“Many years ago, while I was working at Bornova Municipality, Gaye was a member of our Children’s Council. Today, she has grown into an important climate advocate and leader. We are delighted to sign this climate-focused protocol together. It is a great source of pride to support and contribute to the remarkable commitment and activism she has demonstrated since childhood.”

Aiming for Lower Carbon Emissions and a Nature-Friendly Bornova

Mayor Eşki emphasized that green, urban, and digital transformation are at the core of the municipality’s vision. Highlighting their commitment to building a city that lives in harmony with nature, he stated:

“We are carrying out an intensive and nature-friendly transformation process. We are working tirelessly on renewable energy, carbon emission reduction, and local production. Our environmental investments and sustainability projects will continue without slowing down.”

Bringing the Voice of Local Communities to COP31

Social Climate Association President Gaye Tuğrulöz expressed her pride in working closely with Bornova Municipality and emphasized the importance of localizing global climate policies:

“This protocol between the Social Climate Association and Bornova Municipality makes us extremely happy. Together with children, young people, our members, and volunteers across Bornova, we will continue supporting the city’s fight against climate change, localizing climate policies, and ensuring that the voice of local communities is heard more strongly at COP31, which Türkiye will host this year. We thank our Mayor for his support and commitment.”

International Grants and Climate Education Initiatives

Under the strategic partnership, various initiatives will be implemented to strengthen social resilience against climate change. The cooperation will include joint applications for national and international grant programs, as well as the organization of training programs, seminars, workshops, and awareness campaigns on climate justice, environmental rights, and sustainability.

The protocol also aims to encourage youth participation in decision-making processes and includes collaboration in research, monitoring, and reporting activities related to climate action and sustainable development.