Accessing The Ecocity Potential of Bartın (Turkey)

Abstract

Throughout history, environmental, economic, social and cultural values have affected the formation and development of cities. The industrial revolution brought about a rapid change in the cities and caused the values. The physical changes experienced by the cities caused rapid destruction of the environment and natural resources, thus damaging the ecological structures of the cities. These reasons have led people to search for sustainable environment and nature. In order to prevent this negative situation from getting worse, to use resources sustainably, to ensure the comfort of living spaces, new urban forms have emerged in order not to threaten the existence of nature. Eco-cities, as a self-sufficient city model that encourages the rational and sustainable use of resources, are one of these urban forms. Ecocity concept emerged with this in mind. This study was carried out in Bartin City, which has urban, rural and coastal areas and important resources. In the study, the analyzes of the natural and cultural potential that affect the ecocity potential of the city were made using geographic information system techniques. ArcGIS 10.8 software was used for this purpose. The data were stored in the ArcGIS 10.8 and thematic maps were created. Then, by overlapping the maps, the eligibility criteria were questioned. The potentials of Bartin city, which are suitable for being an ecocity, have been revealed. Within the scope of sustainability, the city's economic, social, cultural achievements and an ecocity model proposal has been presented.