Turkey confronts environmental threats from Eskişehir mining plan and waste‑clogged historic bridge in Aydın

In Alpu district of Eskişehir, a proposed Esence Gold‑Silver Mine and crushing‑processing plant—covering an area equivalent to 840 football fields—has prompted local NGOs and residents to organize a public participation meeting on 22 July. Speakers warned that the project could pollute groundwater, generate dust, and destroy agricultural lands, arguing that the state does not benefit from such “wild mining”.

In Söke, Aydın province, the historic Taşköprü stone bridge over the Büyük Menderes River became buried with waste after heavy winter rains. Residents attempted to burn the debris, which damaged the bridge’s surface and harmed nearby wildlife. EKODOSD president Bahattin Sürücü called for a floating barrier system to collect solid waste before it reaches the bridge, citing severe ecological risks for fish, turtles, and birds.