Turkish Scientists to Tackle Arctic Land Restoration with Innovative Engineering Solutions

ISTANBUL — A Turkish research team led by Istanbul Technical University (ITU) is set to develop engineering solutions aimed at restoring damaged lands in the Arctic, focusing on combating the impacts of natural and human activities through scientifically validated methods.

According to Philippines News Agency, a faculty member of environmental engineering at ITU and head of the school’s Microbial Ecology Group, the project, known as the TerrArctic Mega Grant Project, is being implemented in collaboration with Tyumen State University and funded by the Russian Ministry of Science and Higher Education. The initiative’s primary goals include addressing the severe effects of climate change observed over the last four decades and ensuring sustainable land use in the Arctic, which is crucial for global food and water security.

Ince detailed that the team, consisting of 60 researchers, plans to develop an emergency action plan to tackle ecological and environmental issues in the Arctic. This plan will leverage innovative engineering solutions to rehabilitate degraded areas, improve soil quality through bio-remediation, and establish sustainable land use plans. These efforts are aimed at providing long-term benefits to environmental health and securing food and water resources.

The scientific director highlighted the team’s first field research trip to the Arctic, which took place from May 12-31 with colleagues from Tyumen State University. Ince also mentioned plans to expand the team by inviting more Turkish scientists to join the project, supported by ITU Rector Ismail Koyuncu who has facilitated the school’s involvement in this global initiative by providing necessary administrative and technical support.