Why Gediz Basin

Population growth, industrialization, and intensive agricultural activities in the Gediz Basin, one of Türkiye’s 25 river basins, place quantitative and qualitative pressure on water resources.

The per capita water availability in the basin is well below the national average. Agricultural production, especially viticulture, vegetable farming, and irrigation intensive agriculture, accounts for more than 70 percent of total water demand. Groundwater levels are rapidly declining, particularly in the Alaşehir, Salihli, and Saruhanlı plains. With climate change, irregular precipitation patterns and prolonged drought periods further increase stress on water supply.

Agriculture based nitrate and phosphorus loads have become the main cause of pollution in the Gediz River and groundwater. The uncontrolled increase in fertilizer and pesticide use threatens water quality, especially in areas dominated by viticulture and field crops. Wastewater from industrial facilities and organized industrial zones creates additional pressure, particularly around the Manisa city center and Kemalpaşa.