Investigation of the application of strategic environmental assessment in transportation sector in Turkey

In this study, the application possibilities of SEA at the level of policy, plan and programme for transportation sector in Turkey was investigated. Within this scope, the developments in transportation sector in Turkey were examined in terms of an institutional, legal and operational framework; the research was conducted to provide SEA towards strengthening the sectoral structure and resolution of existing problems. For this purpose, in addition to literature review, SEA stages depending on its theoretical base is determined according to the SEA practices worldwide were investigated at varying levels and global experiences were determined. Due to SEA applications have varied by an administrative structure, planning system and policy preparation process in countries, the most appropriate possibilities of SEA application in Turkey are investigated. Within this framework, at the policy level, Eleventh Development Plan; at the plan level, Integrated Urban Transportation Master Plan for Istanbul Metropolitan Area and at the programme level, 2019 Presidential Annual Program are assessed in terms of SEA. As a conclusion of the study, it was brought forward the recommendations proved to be a significant practical guide to the legal SEA process in Turkey.