Şanlıurfa

Located in southeastern Turkey near the Syrian border, Şanlıurfa is one of the country’s oldest and fastest-growing cities, with a rich agricultural and cultural heritage. Home to more than two million people across the wider province, the city lies in a semi-arid region characterised by very hot summers, mild winters and limited rainfall. Rapid urban growth, combined with rising temperatures and increasing water stress, has made heatwaves, drought and pressure on natural resources some of the city’s most pressing climate risks.

Climate action in Şanlıurfa is closely linked to water management, urban expansion and the resilience of agricultural systems that are central to the local economy. Population growth and rising energy demand are increasing pressure on infrastructure, while hotter conditions are affecting public health, food production and everyday urban life. The city’s approach focuses on balancing development needs with long-term environmental resilience.

Key priorities include improving energy efficiency, strengthening sustainable water use and expanding greener urban areas to reduce heat exposure. Şanlıurfa is also exploring cleaner transport and more climate-conscious urban planning while working with local institutions and communities to build awareness and resilience. Its climate strategy reflects the particular challenges faced by rapidly growing cities in dry regions already experiencing the direct effects of climate change.

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