WWF-Turkiye

Our Mission

WWF-Turkiye carries out its work across six main global focus areas: Oceans, Biodiversity, Freshwater, Climate and Energy, Forests, and Soil Protection. In line with these priorities, the organization also undertakes initiatives in areas such as Education, Plastics, and other related issues. WWF-Turkiye aims to tackle human-induced threats-including habitat destruction, climate change, overexploitation of natural resources, pollution, and illegal hunting-with the overarching goal of halting species loss and the degradation of natural ecosystems. In line with the global 2030 goals, WWF-Turkiye collaborates with public institutions and stakeholders to contribute to the 30x30 target for terrestrial and marine protected areas and to achieve climate targets aligned with the 1.5-degree limit. WWF-Turkiye has supported the protection of key species such as sea turtles and played a critical role in designating ecologically important bird and plant sites, including 20 protected areas. The organization promotes sustainable fishing by collaborating with small-scale fisheries, local producers, and public institutions. It aims to prevent overfishing, unregulated practices, and seagrass degradation in the Mediterranean, while also developing projects to tackle marine and terrestrial plastic pollution and advocating for global plastic agreements. Located in a wildfire-prone region, WWF-Turkiye works alongside volunteer veterinarians to care for wildlife affected by forest fires, engages local communities in fire prevention efforts, and supports ecological restoration. Additionally, WWF-Turkiye provides assistance to injured or distressed wildlife through a dedicated support hotline and partners with local authorities to engage the wider public in dolphin and bird watching activities. On the climate front, as part of the local Climate Network, WWF-Turkiye advocates for the net zero target, promotes the adoption of science-based climate policies and instruments, and aims to strengthen the technical capacities of institutions, the private sector, and civil society. The organization works to shape Turkiye's climate policies on a more inclusive foundation and supports concrete actions in key areas such as the energy transition. One of WWF-Turkiye's most significant initiatives is promoting sustainable agriculture by collaborating with local producers and public institutions to implement regenerative practices and improve water and soil management in cotton farming, thereby supporting the development of a climate-resilient textile supply chain. WWF-Turkiye designs and implements conservation projects that consider the economic, social, and cultural needs of local communities. It offers practical solutions through collaboration with public institutions, local authorities, academia, the private sector, and other stakeholders, focusing on best practices, policy development, capacity building, and education.