Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Global Sustainability and Development Congress, Kayseri, Türkiye, 15 - 16 Kasım 2025, cilt.1, ss.925-932, (Tam Metin Bildiri)
The monitoring of water quality is imperative for the preservation of
human health and the assurance of the sustainable management of ecosystems. In
Turkey, the practice of water quality monitoring has historically centered on
ensuring the safety of drinking water and safeguarding public health. However,
with the rise of industrialization and agricultural activities, this field has
undergone a significant expansion, embracing a more comprehensive approach to
environmental monitoring. Since the 2000s, the harmonization process with
European Union environmental legislation has contributed to the expansion of
monitoring networks, increased parameter diversity, and strengthened laboratory
infrastructure. In the contemporary context, the evaluation of surface waters,
groundwater, drinking water sources, and wastewater is conducted through the
application of physicochemical, biological, and toxicological parameters. However,
significant constraints persist, including regional differences, a lack of
institutional coordination, limitations in data sharing, and insufficient
monitoring of new pollutants (pharmaceuticals, microplastics, endocrine
disruptors).
In recent years, technological advances have brought innovative methods,
such as real-time sensor systems, remote sensing techniques, and environmental
DNA (eDNA) analysis, to the forefront of water quality monitoring.
Additionally, data integration, artificial intelligence–based prediction
models, and citizen science applications are considered key future approaches
to water quality monitoring. To improve water quality monitoring in Turkey, it
is recommended that a standardized data infrastructure be established at the national
level, inter-agency cooperation be strengthened, monitoring programs for new
pollutants be launched, and public participation be encouraged.
Turkey has made significant progress in water quality monitoring. However, increasing environmental pressures and the risks posed by climate change necessitate a more integrated, technological, and participatory monitoring approach.
Keywords: Water Quality Monitoring, Turkey, Sustainable Water Management, Emerging
Pollutants, Technological Innovations