Bartın expands natural protected areas to 36 sites

Efforts to preserve the natural heritage in Bartın have expanded, with the number of registered protected areas reaching 36. According to data from the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, these include 20 natural site areas, 13 monument trees, and 3 caves.

Over the last two years, the number of natural site areas increased from 19 to 20 following the inclusion of the Güzelcehisar-Büyükkızılkum area. Authorities are also re-evaluating the protection statuses of existing sites. Furthermore, Ecological-Based Scientific Research (ETBAR) reports have been prepared for three additional potential sites, marking a significant step in the registration process.

Currently, sites such as the Güzelcehisar Lava Columns, Tekke Önü, Tavşan Island, Poseidon Temple, and Ulukaya Waterfall are classified as ‘Strictly Protected Sensitive Areas’. Other locations, including the Bartın River, Bozköy, and parts of Amasra, are designated as ‘Qualified Natural Protection Areas’. Investors seeking to operate in these zones must apply to the Bartın Provincial Directorate of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change.