The Land Use in Turkey: A General Assessment and Affecting Factors

Abstract

Discussions related to land use in Turkey in recent years has been increasing. These discussions are mostly between those who want to protect the natural environment and those who demand other sectoral investment areas. However, there has not been a comprehensive and holistic study assessment of the land use, except for local studies. For this reason, the present study has been conducted in order to reveal the change in land use in the country’s geography. In order to achieve the aims of the study, the literature was reviewed, institutional data were compiled, and the results of previous local studies were evaluated using appropriate methods. Factors affecting land use were examined in the study and it was seen from the findings that significant land use changes occurred in the last 75 years. Although land use suitable for natural structure was common in advance, after the 1980s sectoral needs came to the fore. With the accelerated urbanization and industrialization, tourism, mining and dam areas have become widespread. It has been determined that there is a need for new scientific studies on land use, revision of ineffective laws, and national land use plans that take into account the sectoral needs in order to reduce the discussions.