We are proud to announce the newest grantee partners of the Turquoise Coast Environment Fund. This fund, launched through our continued collaboration with the Conservation Collective and the Support Foundation for Civil Society (Sivil Toplum için Destek Vakfı), is dedicated to protecting Türkiye’s marine biodiversity and coastal ecosystems — and our impactful partnership will continue into 2025.
In the most recent grant cycle, the call for applications received 48 eligible applications from 13 provinces across Türkiye. Following the evaluation process, four civil society organisations were selected to receive a total of 2,765,650 TRY in funding.
Meet our new grantee partners and learn about their projects:
Society for the Conservation of Nature and Culture (NATURA Doğa ve Kültür Koruma Derneği) – 685,000 TRY grant
In the wildfire-affected forests of Muğla, this project explores how post-wildfire landscapes can be transformed into sustainable honey forests. By supporting traditional beekeeping and managing brown bear conflicts, it restores biodiversity and offers alternative livelihoods. Combining field research, ecological restoration, and local knowledge, the project strengthens both climate adaptation and rural economies.
Social Climate Association (Sosyal İklim Derneği) – 680,650 TRY grant
This project protects the endangered Cladocora caespitosa coral reefs along Bozcaada’s coastline, threatened by illegal fishing, anchoring, and tourism. Through underwater scientific surveys, protective buoys, and biodiversity monitoring, it reduces human impact and informs policy. It also combines education and art through digital installations, underwater sculptures, and workshops engaging children and local communities in marine stewardship.
Sustainable Living Association (Sürdürülebilir Yaşam Derneği – SUYADER) – 700,000 TRY grant
In Foça, Izmir, this initiative addresses the decline of culturally significant yet economically undervalued fish species like mullet, salema, and bogue. By promoting sustainable fishing, reviving traditional recipes, and organising events like a local fish festival, the project supports small-scale fishers while reconnecting communities with local seafood. A “Suspended Fish” system also provides fresh, healthy fish to families facing food insecurity — blending environmental awareness with inclusive, community-driven impact.
Turkish Marine Research Foundation (Türk Deniz Araştırmaları Vakfı – TUDAV) – 700,000 TRY grant
Retracing the historic routes of Ottoman cartographer Pîrî Reis, this project launches a scientific expedition aboard the TUDAV MARU to monitor marine biodiversity, pollution, and invasive species along the Aegean coast. Through port visits, educational outreach, and a final Blue Gathering in Çeşme, it promotes marine literacy, shares scientific findings with the public, and fosters dialogue between communities, researchers, and policymakers on the future of Türkiye’s seas.
We look forward to sharing updates on these impactful projects as they progress. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news and stories from the field.
