Understanding Perceived Impacts of Large-Scale Projects on Forest-Edge Populations

Forests are increasingly under pressure due to rapid population growth, unplanned urbanization, and the conversion of forest land for non-forestry uses. In Istanbul, large-scale infrastructure projects—including a major airport, motorways, and a bridge—constructed in forested northern regions have led to significant land use change, generating complex social and environmental impacts. This study examines how local populations perceive the social consequences of these projects. Data were collected through 995 questionnaires across 25 neighborhoods and semi-structured interviews with 18 neighborhood headmen and 5 representatives from NGOs and professional organizations. Exploratory factor analysis was used to categorize perceptions, and Mann–Whitney U tests assessed differences based on proximity to project sites and project type. The findings indicate that both proximity and project type play a key role: residents living closer to the projects—and particularly those living near the airport—report more negative impacts, including feelings of insecurity, increased accident risk, limited employment opportunities, loss of forest, agricultural, and pasture lands, heightened environmental, noise, and air pollution, as well as adverse effects on physical and mental health. Measuring and mitigating these impacts during and after the projects is essential. Properly conducted, audited, and effective social impact assessments are of vital importance for the local people living around the project.