Zorlu Energy - Türkiye Biodiversity Map
Our goal is to leave nature in a better state for future generations. In this regard, we are committed to creating a net positive impact in all new renewable energy projects we will commission by 2030.
The yellow bumble plant (Heliotrophium thermophilum) is an endemic species that grows in the Denizli region. Zorlu Enerji is carrying out projects in collaboration with Pamukkale University to protect this rare species.
Globally, ecosystems and biodiversity are facing serious threats due to human activities. Deforestation, pollution, habitat loss, and climate change are causing rapid extinction of species and disrupting ecosystem balance. This situation weakens ecosystem services, endangering vital functions such as food security, water resources, and climate regulation.
However, when the right approaches are adopted, renewable energy projects have great potential to create lasting and positive impacts on nature. In this transformation process, our first goal is to identify and eliminate potential negative impacts of renewable energy projects on wildlife, natural habitats, and ecosystems. Subsequently, we prioritize contributing to the revival of nature by using our resources more efficiently and sustainably and by designing our energy projects to support the surrounding ecosystems.
You can access our biodiversity risk report regarding global biodiversity and ecosystem risks via the link.
Our goal is to leave nature in a better condition for future generations. In this regard, we commit to creating a net positive impact in all new renewable energy projects we will commission by 2030.
Zorlu Energy Biodiversity Risk Report
Our targets on biodiversity loss and deforestation:
We aim to invest at least TRY 10 million in biodiversity by 2030 to protect and improve habitats.
As part of our fight against deforestation, we commit to supporting afforestation efforts and aim to plant 1.2 million saplings by 2030.
As of 2024, we have planted a total of 690,000 saplings.
- 2010–2016: Kars, Denizli and Osmaniye – 45,000 saplings
- 2017: Yeğenli/Tire-İzmir – 35,000 saplings
- 2018: Yenicekent/Buldan-Denizli – 70,000 saplings
- 2019: Salihli/Manisa – 90,000 saplings
- 2020: Nurdağı/Gaziantep – 90,000 saplings
- 2021: Nurdağı/Gaziantep – 90,000 saplings
- 2022: Erzincan – 90,000 saplings
- 2024: Eskişehir – 90,000 saplings
You can access our policies demonstrating our commitment to ecosystems and biodiversity below.
Zorlu Energy Deforestation Combat Policy
Zorlu Energy Biodiversity Conservation Commitment
Biodiversity Protection Policy
Our Ecosystem and Biodiversity Conservation Efforts
Agricultural Impact Assessment
Zorlu Enerji scientifically monitors the agricultural impacts of its operations in the Aegean region, where its geothermal operations are located. Through agricultural impact assessment studies conducted in cooperation with Ege University, samples taken from soil, fruits, and fruit leaves were analyzed to determine the extent of geothermal impact. As a result of the studies and analyses, no negative findings were encountered.
BEYS (Biodiversity and Ecosystem Management System)
Within the scope of the BEYS (Biodiversity and Ecosystem Management System), which was launched in 2023, action plans have been developed for critical species within the impact areas of Zorlu Enerji facilities. Informative training sessions on the species, the creation of a critical species booklet, and warning signage efforts have been carried out. Through the BEYS Module developed on the QDMS software as an internal platform, actions and performance monitoring specific to Zorlu Enerji facilities are conducted.
Zero Carbon Footprint Forests Project
Zorlu Enerji has implemented the Zero Carbon Footprint Forests Project with the goal of combating climate change and achieving a sustainable future. Within the scope of the project, by planting 90,000 saplings each year, it contributes to the goal of achieving a Net Positive Impact by 2030.
Yellow Bumble Heliotropium Thermophilum
The Yellow Bumble Project aims to protect the critically endangered yellow bumble in the Sarayköy district of Denizli. Conducted around the Kızıldere 3 Geothermal Power Plant, the project contributes to biodiversity by preserving the genetic diversity of this rare species. In collaboration with Pamukkale University, efforts are underway to have the plant included in the IUCN Red List.
Animal Friends Project for Migratory Birds
We equip newly constructed and existing transmission lines with bird protection devices (anti-perching devices, insulator insulation materials, etc.) to prevent bird collisions. OEDAŞ has installed protection equipment on nearly a thousand poles. Through this project, migratory birds are able to continue their journeys safely. In a region located on the migration route of millions of birds, this initiative helps protect birds from electrocution and prevents power outages caused by migratory birds.
Fish Passages for Our Hydroelectric Power Plants
We care about the ecosystem and biodiversity of the streams used by our hydroelectric power plants. At the regulator facilities of our river-type hydroelectric power plant, İkizdere HPP, fish passages have been constructed to allow fish migration. These passages are regularly inspected to ensure functionality.
Rehabilitation Strategy for Degraded Areas
Zorlu Enerji is committed to minimizing environmental impacts on lands it owns, leases, or manages for production activities. This strategy includes targeted initiatives focused particularly on geothermal, electric transmission line, and wind energy projects, aiming to rehabilitate and protect degraded areas in accordance with international standards.
Tirebolu Spider (Zadarion tireboluensis)
As part of project planning activities conducted within the borders of Tirebolu district in Giresun, we discovered an endemic species with a very limited distribution that was previously undescribed in the literature. In collaboration with the academic staff working on the project, we introduced the species to the scientific literature.
Secmen’s Fennel (Ekimia ozcan & secmenii)
During biodiversity research conducted within the scope of the planned Sami Soydam Sandalcık Dam and HPP project in the Acıpayam district of Denizli, we identified a single-point endemic species with a very limited distribution that had not previously been recorded in the literature. In cooperation with Ege University academics, we completed the species identification and registered it as a new species under the name Ekimia ozcan & secmenii. We reported the species to the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, contributing to its inclusion in the Biodiversity Conservation Species Action Plan.
Critical Species
As Zorlu Enerji, we produce nature-friendly energy through our geothermal, hydroelectric, and wind power plants.
With the "Critical Species Booklet" we have prepared to protect critical species and natural habitats in the areas where our plants operate, we take our responsibility to preserve biodiversity and ecosystems one step further.
This work includes the measures we take to mitigate our impacts on flora and fauna within the framework of national legislation, international agreements, and IFC Performance Standards (PS-6).
To learn more about our strategies for protecting ecosystem balance and to explore our critical species, review our booklet!
You can access our action plans regarding critical species through the documents below.
Explore our Critical Species booklet to learn more about the strategies we’ve developed to protect ecosystem balance, our action plans, and the species we are working to preserve.
Critical Species Booklet
Zorlu Enerji Environmental Impact Reduction Strategy for Management Lands
Biodiversity Action Plans