Visual pollution as an urban environmental problem: The example of Van province

Visual pollution is considered an important research area in the context of urban planning and environmental management. Visual pollution observed in cities appears as a phenomenon that occurs under the influence of various factors and negatively affects urban aesthetics and environmental quality. The city of Van, which stands out with its natural beauties, struggles with visual pollution due to factors such as garbage being thrown into the streets, unplanned construction and excessive use of billboards. These problems experienced during the urbanization process are especially associated with unplanned construction and inadequate waste management. Accumulation of unplanned garbage on the streets negatively affects urban aesthetics and increases visual pollution. In addition, the intense use of billboards also triggers this situation. Elements such as electric poles, cables and irregular car parks also contribute to the spread of visual pollution. Therefore, more comprehensive and effective strategies need to be developed in the fields of urban planning and environmental management in order to prevent and reduce visual pollution. The strategies to be developed will be an important step towards improving the quality of urban life in Van and similar cities. The aim of the research is to identify in detail the factors that cause visual pollution in Van province and to evaluate the findings in depth. The research aims not only to make a diagnosis but also to offer suggestions for local level policies through political and administrative decision-making mechanisms. The aim of these recommendations is to protect the environmental aesthetics of Van and improve the quality of life of individuals living in the city by developing effective and sustainable solutions in the fight against visual pollution. Additionally, this research aims to raise awareness in society and encourage awareness-raising activities on visual pollution. During the research process, a table was created by examining the literature on the factors that cause visual pollution. This table guided the survey conducted around Van Kent. The survey was enriched with photographs taken in the surrounding area to support the data obtained. The main purpose of the study is to provide suggestions to political decision-making mechanisms and local policies, to raise awareness about the environment and to suggest measures to reduce pollution. The data obtained clearly reveals the pollution factors in Van province.