Page 197 - Çevre Şehir ve İklim Dergisi - Özel Sayı

ABSTRACT
The world is currently undergoing significant impacts from global warming, exacerbated by rapid
population growth and increased energy and fuel consumption, leading to the degradation of natural
resources. Climate change, as a consequence of global warming, is causing a rising incidence of drought
and related problems in various regions, including Turkiye. The issues faced in arid and semi-arid areas
at risk of drought include wind erosion, desiccation, and desertification. Efforts to identify sensitive
areas vulnerable to desertification and wind erosion are crucial for developing effective rehabilitation
strategies. By prioritizing the identification and adaptation of climate-resilient plants, the objective is to
support the rehabilitation of such areas. In this context, recent initiatives by the General Directorate of
Combating Desertification and Erosion (ÇEMGM) focus on identifying and implementing climate-
resilient herbaceous, semi-shrub, shrub, and tree species for afforestation projects. Data on the survival
rates and growth metrics of plants applied in local arid and barren soils have been meticulously monitored
and documented. The findings indicate that species such as crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum),
intermediate wheatgrass (Agropyron intermedium), kochia (Kochia prostrata), four-wing saltbush
(Atriplex canascens), and tamarisk (Tamarix sp.) have demonstrated higher adaptation rates in these
environments. Furthermore, molecular characterization studies and tissue culture analyses of materials
collected from various genotypes of wild pear (Pyrus elaeagnifolia) and hawthorn (Crataegus spp.)
in drought-prone regions have revealed significant genetic variation among the genotypes. Resistant
and genetically superior genotypes have been identified and propagated through grafting to establish
genetic resource gardens. The plant adaptation and identification efforts offer solutions for determining
suitable species for afforestation in areas sensitive to desertification and wind erosion, while also ensuring
the sustainability of plant sourcing. In the past, experiences have highlighted the importance of using
certain climate-resilient plant species in combating wind erosion and desertification, emphasizing their
role in achieving success in such areas. Given the ecological conditions and anthropogenic impacts, it
is essential to implement key criteria in afforestation activities, such as site protection, land preparation,
and ensuring planting success through practices such as initial watering of seedlings, water harvesting,
and soil conservation techniques. The overall objectives of these studies include the establishment of new
carbon sink areas with zero emissions, the rehabilitation of degraded pastures and other non-forested areas,
contributing to the balance of land degradation, improving soil ecology, creating feed and food sources,
and providing climate-resilient, nature-based solutions for urban environments through drought-resistant
afforestation in parks, gardens, and urban forests.
Keywords: Climate Change, Drought, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands, Wind Erosion, Desertification,
Climate-Resilient Plants

Makale Atıf Bilgisi: Sarıhan, B. – Acar, R. – Uzun, A. (2024). “Kurak ve
Yarı Kurak Alanlarda İklim Dirençli Bitkilerin Kulla-
nılması”. Çevre, Şehir ve İklim Dergisi, Yıl: 3, Çölleşme,
Erozyon ve İklim Değişikliği Özel Sayısı, s. (183-223)

Makale Türü: Araştırma
Geliş Tarihi: 30.10.2024
Kabul Tarihi: 3.11.2024
Yayın Tarihi: 08.11.2024
Yayın Sezonu: Kasım 2024

196 Çevre, Şehir ve İklim Dergisi Çevre, Şehir ve İklim Dergisi
Çölleşme, Erozyon ve İklim Değişikliği | Özel Sayı, | 2024