Rethinking Land Use in Watershed Regions: Istanbul’s Lessons for Sustainable Futures

The research explores the potential and limitations of ecosystem-based land use planning in rapidly urbanizing contexts, using Istanbul’s ecologically sensitive waterscapes – including the Riva River Basin, Ömerli Reservoir, and Şile Region – as case studies. Through a critical examination of land use changes over the last two decades, supported by remote sensing data and spatial policy analysis, the research reveals the growing mismatch between ecological needs and current planning practices. The findings highlight how urban expansion, institutional fragmentation, and insufficient environmental regulation have led to the degradation of vital wetland ecosystems. Despite the existence of strategic planning documents such as Istanbul Vision 2050, implementation remains weak in protecting natural systems. The research argues for a paradigm shift toward ecosystem-based, adaptive, and participatory planning approaches. It concludes by offering policy recommendations for integrating nature-based solutions, green infrastructure, and watershed-scale governance into formal land use planning frameworks, contributing to more sustainable and climate-resilient urban futures.