A New Era of Water Conservation in Parks

In response to the growing threat of drought, Bornova Municipality is launching a green transformation by implementing drip irrigation systems in all parks and redesigning landscapes with drought-tolerant plants. Mayor Ömer Eşki urged citizens to use water responsibly, warning, “Soon we may not even have water to wash our hands.”

Following an unusually dry winter and spring, Bornova Municipality has taken proactive steps to address the impending water crisis. Speaking on World Environment Day, Mayor Eşki announced that drip irrigation will be installed across all parks and a new landscaping approach using low-water-demand plants will be introduced.

Mayor Eşki’s Water Crisis Warning on World Environment Day

Highlighting the unsustainable nature of current water consumption habits, Mayor Eşki stated, “In the near future, we may wake up and not have water to wash our hands and face. Reservoir levels are dropping rapidly. Severe drought is looming for July and August.”

Drip Irrigation and Drought-Resistant Plants

Eşki emphasized that the adoption of drip irrigation across the district is not merely a technical upgrade but a vital measure against the climate crisis. “We will transition to a ground cover that is better suited to İzmir’s climate and geography—more segmented, orderly, and water-efficient. This also means a more environmentally harmonious and sustainable policy. There will be some changes in how our parks look, but this transformation is essential and life-saving,” he said.

“Without Water, There Is No Life”

Calling on residents to take part in the effort, Mayor Eşki reminded everyone of their role in water conservation:

“This is a shared responsibility. Whether at home, at work, in the streets, or in the parks—we all need to use water wisely. As municipalities, we’re doing our part. Now we need your support for this transformation.”