Ecology Union or a Salvation

We interviewed the members of Ecology Union, which was founded in March 2018 in Eskişehir by 56 local ecology organizations’ gathering.

Can you tell us about the foundation process of the Union?

First step to found Ecology Union was taken in 11-12 November 2017 in Bergama Gathering, which was held by 11 ecology organizations from different parts of the country. Their invitation highlighted the fact that politically supported corporations cruelly destroy the nature. Because almost every resisting action was carried by local organizations and their achievements were not widely heard or supported. That’s why, 11 inviting organization made a call to gather and discuss about how to shape the future together. This was the first step to found Ecology Union.

Which organizations participate in Ecology Union? Why do you think a union was needed? What is the difference between Ecology Union and other umbrella organizations?

Ecology Union is made up of local ecology organizations. The Union was founded to be a solidarity ground for different organizations struggling in many other cities of Turkey. We aim to reach other local organizations and unite. We aim to define our way of struggle and be in solidarity with other labor, democracy and peace organizations.

What do you have in your agenda now?

We did nationwide press statements, protests and events on May 9rd, on the anniversary of killing of two ecologists: Ali-Aysin Büyüknohutçu. Nuclear power station plans, natural disasters due to mining, threats to our cultural assets and struggle against “crazy projects” are also on the agenda of Ecology Union.