Human relations with the natural environment in Karadağ (Karacabey-Bursa)

The study area encompasses Karadağ, located between the Karacabey district of Bursa province and the Bandırma district of Balıkesir province, within the Marmara Region. The study area is approximately situated between 28°5' and 28°35' east longitudes and 40°15' and 40°25' north latitudes. The highest point of the study area is Şahmelek Hill (833 m). The main objective of this study is to evaluate the reciprocal interaction between the natural environmental conditions and human activities in Karadağ from a geographical perspective. In this context, both the physical and human characteristics of the region have been individually examined. The study began with a literature review, followed by the preparation of geological, geomorphological, topographic, and land use maps of Karadağ using ArcMap software to analyze its natural environmental features. Field studies were also conducted in the area. Based on the collected data, interpretations were made regarding the interaction between the natural environment and human activities, shaping the study accordingly. The study also investigated the interactions between natural environmental features and anthropogenic activities. The natural features have become a source of livelihood for the local population. Livestock farming, the collection of bay and linden leaves, and forestry activities are prominent in the villages. Forestry activities, in particular, have contributed positively to the residents of Şahmelek village. The study area also includes active quarries, which have caused rill erosion and disrupted the balance of the topography. Addititionally, the marble extraction sites in the area are examples of negative anthropogenic impacts. In order to mitigate these adverse effects, awareness-raising activities on land use should be conducted fort he local population, and various proposals have been made within the framework of sustainable geographical planning to protect future living conditions.