Mersin environmentalists warn of pollution and health risks

The Mersin Nature and Environment Association has raised alarms regarding severe environmental pollution and health crises in Mersin, Turkey. Sabahat Arslan, president of the association, reported that recycling facilities located in the Yalınayak and Şeyh Sümer neighborhoods are causing significant harm to local residents.

Arslan stated that residents are facing serious health issues, including an increase in cancer cases, due to constant exposure to smoke from these facilities. The association highlighted that many of these plants lack proper treatment systems. Furthermore, it was reported that only 7% to 8% of imported plastic waste is actually recycled, while the remaining large volume is reportedly discarded into sewage lines, streams, or forested areas.