Human Rights Watch (HRW) has called upon Türkiye’s administrative court in Kahramanmaraş to closely examine the environmental impact assessment (EIA) related to the proposed expansion of the Afşin Elbistan A coal power plant. HRW asserts that the EIA for the project falls short of legal standards, notably omitting comprehensive data on air quality and health risks. The amicus brief submitted by HRW provides detailed arguments on these deficiencies.
The approval of two additional units at the Afşin Elbistan A plant by the Ministry of Environment is contentious because the facility already contributes significantly to emissions. Under Turkish law, EIAs must thoroughly assess the potential impacts on air quality, health, and nearby communities. However, HRW critiques the current EIA for missing baseline measurements and omitting a cumulative impact analysis, particularly given the presence of high sulfur dioxide levels that exceed both national and international norms.
HRW emphasizes the importance of adherence to Türkiye’s constitutional protections regarding the right to a healthy environment, enshrined in Article 56. This is interpreted by Turkish courts as prohibiting developments that imperil residential areas. Türkiye’s obligations under international agreements like the European Convention on Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights further enforce the requirement to maintain air quality.
Medical professionals and community reports align in their concern over increased rates of respiratory illnesses and cancer, positing that the expansion would exacerbate these conditions. Türkiye’s energy mix, despite comprising 54% renewable sources, still includes ongoing coal projects. The World Health Organization estimates nearly 35,000 deaths in Türkiye from air pollution-related causes since 2019, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
The outcome of the court’s deliberation on HRW’s filing could have far-reaching effects on environmental law enforcement in Türkiye, highlighting the tension between environmental stewardship and energy development in the region. For further information, the detailed JURIST article can be accessed here.