Karadeniz Technical University (KTU) carries out various activities to integrate sustainable land management with tourism. Within this framework, academics from the Faculty of Letters, Department of Archaeology work on preserving the region’s cultural heritage and making it accessible to tourism, thereby providing both scientific and economic contributions.
In addition, research on the sustainability of products such as Aronia and hazelnuts aims to integrate agricultural production with tourism, support the local economy, and contribute to sustainable development. Thus, KTU supports the environmental, economic, and cultural dimensions of tourism and land management with both academic and practical initiatives.
The KTU Department of Archaeology plays a vital role in preserving and documenting tangible cultural heritage through field surveys, excavations, and academic publications. By documenting the historical richness of the Black Sea Region, the department contributes both to the scientific world and to the collective memory of society, while also offering hands-on training opportunities for students.
A protocol signed between Akçaabat Municipality and KTU launched research on the pharmaceutical potential of Aronia (chokeberry), known as a superfruit. The protocol was signed by KTU Rector Prof. Dr. Hamdullah Çuvalcı and Mayor Osman Nuri Ekim. The project involves the KTU Drug and Pharmaceutical Technology Research and Application Center (İLAFAR). Mayor Ekim emphasized their commitment to leading and supporting every initiative that benefits Akçaabat. (News link)
In KTU laboratories, fungal spores are produced to combat the brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys), an invasive pest that damages agricultural crops, especially hazelnuts. Laboratory experiments on the pest have shown successful results using these fungal spores.
As Prof. Dr. İsmail Demir explains, just as microbes can be lethal to humans, microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi can reduce insect populations. The key is to identify the microorganism compatible with the insect’s biology and feeding regime. (News link)
