Welcome to our pick of last week’s news from Fethiye and around Türkiye.
Curated from various news sources.
NEWS
Turkish municipality turns fallen leaves into peat for city plants
In Türkiye’s mid-Black Sea region, Turhal Municipality has launched an eco-friendly initiative to repurpose fallen leaves from its 90,000 trees into peat. Collected leaves are buried and fermented under soil to create a sustainable resource used for germinating flowers that beautify the city, reducing costs and promoting environmental benefits.
Peat, a rich organic material formed from decomposed plant matter, is widely valued in horticulture for moisture retention and plant growth. This project highlights Turhal’s commitment to sustainability, efficiency, and enhancing the local economy while contributing to environmental preservation.
Read more here: https://www.dailysabah.com/turkiye/turkish-municipality-turns-fallen-leaves-into-peat-for-city-plants/news
Fethiye Association President launches social movement to preserve Atatürk’s legacy
Cemal Akbuga, President of the Fethiye Physically Disabled Solidarity Association, has distributed 6,000 photographs of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk to the public, aiming to transform this personal effort into a nationwide social awareness movement.
Explaining his vision, Akbuga stated, “I want to start a social movement throughout Türkiye. It is vital to protect Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s values because we must leave meaningful legacies for future generations. If we fail to protect the values of this country, life loses its meaning. We must defend our Republic, preserve Atatürk’s ideals, and create a better future for coming generations.”
Akbuga expressed his dismay at the notion that supporting Atatürk’s principles could be seen as a crime, saying, “We will not declare allegiance to another country. Of course, we will say, ‘We are Mustafa Kemal’s Soldiers.’ While those who insult Atatürk go unpunished, those of us defending his values are targeted. If there is justice in this country, is it a crime to be a ‘Soldier of Mustafa Kemal?’”
Despite mixed reactions from the public, Akbuga remains committed, having distributed over 1,500 photographs personally. “This is not just about the photos. It’s about spreading awareness and pride in our shared history. I will continue until every last one is handed out,” he said.
The campaign underscores Akbuga’s determination to protect the legacy of Atatürk and inspire others to stand for the values of the Republic.
Source: https://www.gercekfethiye.com/baskan-akbuga-fethiye-de-6-bin-ataturk-fotografi-dagitti/88473/
Natural beauty in Fethiye marred by littering
The recreation area in Çırpı, Esenköy Neighbourhood of Fethiye has been transformed into a garbage heap due to irresponsible littering. Despite the availability of empty garbage containers, waste such as alcohol bottles, food packaging, beverage cans, and even baby diapers is being discarded directly into nature.
This scenic spot, popular for weekend picnics and its tranquil stream flowing through the forest, has drawn criticism for the growing pollution. The lack of environmental awareness among visitors is evident, as garbage piles up even where containers remain unused.
Residents and environmental advocates urge greater responsibility and awareness to preserve the area’s natural beauty for future generations.
Source: https://www.fethiyetv.com/dogal-guzellik-cop-yiginina-kurban-gidiyor
Türkiye announces significant increases in taxes, fees, and fines for 2025
The Turkish government has announced a 43.93% revaluation rate for 2025, leading to significant increases in taxes, fines, and fees.
Key changes include:
• Phone Registration Fees: The IMEI registration fee for phones brought from abroad will rise to 45,600 liras ($1,300) from 31,700 liras.
• Passports: Fees for short-term passports (up to 6 months) will increase to 2,400 liras, and long-term passports (over three years) will cost 11,300 liras.
• Driver’s Licenses: The cost for a Class B license will climb to 5,700 liras from 3,950 liras.
• Departure Fees: Citizens leaving Türkiye will now pay 720 liras, up from 500 liras.
• Motor Vehicle Tax (MTV): Minimum MTV for common engine sizes will increase from 5,850 liras to 8,400 liras.
• Vehicle Inspections: Fees will rise from 1,800 liras to 2,600 liras.
• Traffic Fines: Penalties for violations such as using a mobile phone while driving, running red lights, or parking illegally will range from 990 to 9,300 liras.
These adjustments reflect the government’s efforts to align fees with inflation and fiscal targets.
Rize’s tea masters to share Turkish brewing art in Japan
Türkiye’s Trade Ministry, in collaboration with the Eastern Black Sea Exporters’ Association (DKİB), is set to showcase Turkish tea culture in Japan from Dec. 11 to 13 as part of the “Turquality Promotion Project.” The initiative includes tea brewing classes and competitions led by expert brewers from Rize, Türkiye’s tea capital, to introduce Japanese enthusiasts to the art of Turkish tea.
According to Şaban Turgut, DKİB’s deputy chairman, the four-year project aims to boost Turkish tea exports by targeting markets in Russia, China, Japan, the Turkic States, the EU, and the Middle East. Activities include tea tasting events, social media campaigns, shows, and conferences.
Calling Turkish tea the region’s “green gold,” Turgut highlighted Japan as the first stop, noting its strong interest in Turkish tea during prior events. The project seeks to double Türkiye’s annual tea exports from 5,300 tons to 10,000 tons in its initial phase.
Source: https://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/rizes-tea-masters-to-share-turkish-brewing-art-in-japan-203128
TIF2024 panel highlights new travel trends and sustainability goals
The ‘Mature Markets, Emerging Travel Trends’ panel at TIF2024 brought together industry leaders to discuss the future of tourism and aviation in Türkiye. Moderated by Pegasus Airlines Chairman Mehmet Nane, the panel featured insights from TAV Airports CEC & EBD Franck Mereyde and Çelebi Group CEO Dave Dorner.
Expanding to Smaller Destinations
Dave Dorner, CEO of Çelebi Group, announced plans to introduce flights to new and smaller destinations in Türkiye, particularly in Central Anatolia and the eastern regions. “We aim to make airport operations more cost-effective and sustainable,” Dorner said, emphasising the group’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and expanding electric systems within their fleet. These efforts align with increasing demands for greener and more efficient airport services.
Focus on Sustainability and Off-Peak Seasons
TAV Airports CEC Franck Mereyde highlighted the importance of catering to diverse passenger needs while advancing sustainability. “We are increasing our capacity to accommodate all types of passengers, from fast-track services to lounge experiences,” Mereyde explained. He also addressed the challenges of off-peak seasons, such as winter in Antalya, suggesting tourism diversification through activities like tennis, cycling, and nature walks to attract year-round visitors.
Both leaders underscored the importance of innovation, sustainability, and addressing evolving traveller expectations as the aviation and tourism sectors adapt to emerging trends.
Source: Turizm Güncel
SPORT
Fethiye’s Hasan Kubilay Alcu triumphs at Izmir International Professional Boxing Night
Hasan Kubilay Alcu, the undefeated European, World, and WBC Middle East Champion, added another victory to his impressive record at the 15th International Professional Boxing Match during the Izmir International Professional Boxing Night.
Competing with unwavering determination, Alcu knocked out his Indonesian opponent, Jamed Jalarante, in the first round, solidifying his reputation as a dominant force in professional boxing.
The municipality congratulates Hasan Kubilay Alcu on his remarkable performance and wishes him continued success in his career.
Source: Fethiye Belediyesi
Thank you to Brian Lloyd for the Fethiyespor update.
Fethiyespor
Ziraat Cup
Fethiyespor will play an away match against Alanyaspor in the fourth round of the Ziraat Cup on Wednesday 4th December. The kick-off time is at 13:00.
League Matches
Sunday 8th December away against Inegölspor. The kick-off time is at 14:00.
For more information about Fethiyespor please visit:
Join the Fethiyespor Yabancilar group on Facebook for more news and updates
You can also follow Fethiyespor on Twitter and Instagram
Turkish Lira (TL) exchange rates
The British Pound bought 44.15 TL by the close of business on Friday. The week before it was selling for 43.28 TL.
The US Dollar bought 34.68 TL by the close of business on Friday. The week before it was selling for 34.55 TL.
The Euro bought 36.69 TL by the close of business on Friday. The week before it was selling for 35.99 TL.
Source: exchangerates.org.uk
Weather Forecast
Here’s your weather forecast for the week ahead.
Source: Living Earth
