Turkish diver Ercumen campaigns for cleaner waters

By Mehmet Fatih Aslan and Yasin Dikme

SANLIURFA, Turkey (AA) - Turkish world record holder free-diver Sahika Ercumen is raising awareness on solid waste management across the world.

She dove in the Halfeti district of the southeastern Sanliurfa province, most of which is submerged after flooding from the Birecik Dam.

The United Nations Development Programme declared Ercumen Turkey's ambassador for underwater life.

She dedicated her dive to the victims of the earthquake in Izmir, Turkey's Aegean province where fatalities have crossed the 100 mark and search and rescue efforts are ongoing.

"I want to hold my breath today especially for Izmir. I want to dedicate it to them.

"I have come across waste and garbage underwater in recent years. We see badly affected nature, a planet where we can no longer breathe, and our economy has been hit immensely. Huge economic losses ahead because we do not use recycling facilities," she said.

She went on to say that she was proud to campaign for a greener planet.

"One of the most important goals in my life is not only to represent our country and hoist our flag, but also to leave behind a more lovable planet," she said.

"Sometimes our voice sounds better underwater. There is pin-drop silence, but sometimes your message reaches more accurately. I hope it reaches its place," she added.

The Turkish diver broke the world record in women's cave diving without fins in October 2019 after diving 100 meters in the icy waters of Gilindire Cave in Turkey's southern province of Mersin.

Writing by Muhammed Enes Calli