As part of 5 June – World Environment Day, “Bir Başka Kıbrıs Yok / There is No Other Cyprus” documentary screening and panel event was organized in collaboration with Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) Urban Research and Development Center (URDC), Community Involvement Center (CIC), Famagusta Women’s Center Association (MAKAMER) and Yeniboğaziçi Women’s Association (YEKAD). Addressing the environmental degradation caused by rapid urban development in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), the event took place at the EMU Activity Center on Wednesday, 3 June 2026, between 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Following the documentary screening, environmental issues were examined from multiple perspectives through discussions involving experts from various disciplines.
Held with the special participation of Nilden Bektaş Erhürman, an Environmental Engineer and the spouse of TRNC President Tufan Erhürman, the event highlighted EMU’s environmentally conscious approach, its emphasis on stakeholder engagement, and its commitment to collaborative action. Implemented with the contributions of the EMU Faculty of Tourism, Faculty of Health Sciences, Faculty of Business and Economics, Faculty of Law, EMU Environment Club, and Sustainable Development Goals Club, the event provided a significant platform for promoting environmental awareness.
“A Reality That Can No Longer Be Overlooked”
Following a moment of silence and the National Anthem, YEKAD Chairperson Nazenin Şahali delivered the opening address. Stressing that the phrase “There Is No Other Cyprus” represents more than the title of a documentary, Şahali described it as a strong message and call to action for environmental protection. She underscored that natural and cultural assets that have been lost cannot be restored, emphasizing that the environment is a precious trust that must be preserved for the sake of children’s future, public health, and cultural heritage. Noting that climate change has become an undeniable reality, Şahali also highlighted the important role women play in fostering environmental awareness and contributing to social transformation. Emphasizing that the struggle to protect the environment is a shared responsibility of all sectors of society, she called for collective action to safeguard nature.
“An Obligation That Cannot Be Postponed”
MAKAMER Chairperson Pelin Üretici stated that environmental issues are no longer concerns solely for environmental advocates but have become a shared matter affecting society as a whole. Emphasizing that the climate crisis, environmental pollution, and the loss of biodiversity have direct consequences across all aspects of life, Üretici noted that, in line with the United Nations’ call, climate action has become an obligation that can no longer be postponed. She further remarked that women occupy a dual role in the environmental movement, both as those affected by environmental challenges and as agents of change. Stressing that the environment should be protected as a shared living space to be passed on to future generations, Üretici underlined that this struggle cannot be considered separately from the principles of social justice, democracy, and peace.
“Call for Action”
In her speech on behalf of EMU-CIC, Prof. Dr. Sonuç Zorlu, EMU Vice Rector for Student Affairs, underscored that 5 June – World Environment Day is not just a day for awareness raising, rather it is a call for action. Emphasizing the statement “There Is No Other Cyprus” as a strong message of caution, Prof. Dr. Zorlu reminded society that lost natural resources and environmental values cannot be reclaimed. Referring to the environment as a precious trust that must be preserved for children, she stressed that no time should be wasted in tackling climate change. Prof. Dr. Zorlu also pointed to the importance of fostering environmental awareness from a young age and underlined the influential role of women and civil society in promoting environmental responsibility and sustainable change.
“There Is No Other World Either”
Speaking on behalf of EMU-URDC, EMU Vice Rector for Academic Affairs Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe emphasized that the event organized within the scope of 5 June – World Environment Day was not merely an awareness-raising initiative, but also a call for urgent and concrete action in response to the climate crisis. Referring to the broad-based organization carried out in collaboration with various EMU centers, faculties, and civil society stakeholders, Prof. Dr. Karatepe stated that the event contributed to strengthening sustainability awareness. He drew attention to the fact that climate change, food waste, water and energy scarcity, and the loss of biodiversity have evolved into a global crisis that affects not only the environment but also human life directly. Prof. Dr. Karatepe further noted that, despite the existence of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, significant shortcomings remain in their implementation. He stressed that sustainability must be effectively integrated into all areas, from education to governance, and remarked that the message “There Is No Other Cyprus” ultimately serves as a reminder of the broader reality that “There Is No Other World.”
“A Valuable Opportunity”
Addressing the audience, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç stated that World Environment Day should be regarded not only as a reminder of environmental issues but also as a valuable opportunity to reconsider collective responsibilities toward future generations. Drawing attention to challenges including climate change, drought, biodiversity loss, declining water resources, and environmental pollution, Prof. Dr. Kılıç emphasized that such issues have economic, social, and humanitarian dimensions in addition to their environmental impact. He noted that Northern Cyprus is experiencing the consequences of these challenges with increasing visibility. Stressing the role of robust legal frameworks and effective sanctions in tackling environmental concerns, Prof. Dr. Kılıç remarked that universities serve not only as centers of knowledge production but also as institutions that contribute to problem-solving and societal progress. He further noted that EMU continues to undertake initiatives related to sustainability, environmentally responsible practices, and energy-environment interactions, adding that these efforts should be enhanced through closer collaboration with civil society and local partners.
“Highly Significant for Strengthening Environmental Awareness”
Speaking at the event, Nilden Bektaş Erhürman, Environmental Engineer and spouse of TRNC President Tufan Erhürman, emphasized that the program held as part of World Environment Day represented an important contribution to the growing awareness of environmental issues. She expressed her appreciation for the strong cooperation established among various institutions, non-governmental organizations, academics, and student clubs, noting that such broad-based participation reflects a shared sense of responsibility toward environmental protection. Erhürman also underlined the particularly noteworthy commitment demonstrated by environmental and women’s organizations. Highlighting the message conveyed by the documentary “There Is No Other Cyprus,” she stated that it serves as a compelling reminder of the need to preserve Cyprus’s unique natural environment and valuable living spaces. Stressing that the island’s natural landscapes and ecological richness constitute a common home that must be protected, Erhürman emphasized the importance of fostering environmental awareness across all sectors of society. She added that events of this kind play a vital role in building public consciousness and encouraging active engagement in environmental issues. Concluding her remarks, Erhürman shared information regarding environmental initiatives undertaken by the TRNC Presidency and extended her thanks to all organizations and individuals who contributed to the successful realization of the event.
Following her speech, Nilden Bektaş Erhürman was presented with a silver plate and a bouquet of flowers by EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç and EMU Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Sonuç Zorlu.
“Başka Kıbrıs Yok” Documentary Met with Audience
As part of the program, attendees watched the documentary “There Is No Other Cyprus,” produced through a collaboration between the PRIO Cyprus Centre and the Green Action Group. Directed by Faik Uzuner and Doğuş Bozkurt, with coordination by Mete Hatay, the documentary examines a range of environmental challenges facing Northern Cyprus, such as uncontrolled development, pollution of land and marine ecosystems, and the degradation of natural areas. Highlighting the impacts of climate change and the need for sustainable lifestyles, the documentary seeks to foster greater environmental awareness and stimulate public engagement in environmental protection efforts.
Following the documentary screening, a panel discussion was held featuring researcher and author Mete Hatay, environmental activist Feriha Tel, economist Mertkan Hamit, and documentary director Faik Uzuner as panelists. During the panel, topics including climate change, environmental protection, sustainable living, and the environmental future of Cyprus were examined through a multidimensional perspective. Following the panel, which was moderated by Prof. Dr. Naciye Doratlı, the speakers were presented with Cyprus-themed gifts and certificates of appreciation by EMU Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe and Prof. Dr. Sonuç Zorlu.