The Big Picture: Lake Egirdir, Turkiye’s second-largest freshwater lake, faces ecological collapse due to water level decline, pollution, and climate change impacts.
The Study: Researchers conducted a 25-year investigation and ongoing field studies in the Lake Egirdir basin to assess the lake’s ecological health and identify key threats.
The Discovery: The study found that declining water levels have led to increased pollutant concentrations in both the water and sediments, severely compromising the lake’s ecological integrity.
The Takeaway: To save Lake Egirdir, maintaining a critical minimum water level and transitioning to sustainable agricultural practices in the surrounding areas are essential for restoring the lake’s ecosystem and ensuring the basin’s long-term sustainability.