Mazlume Rumeysa Lacin

Rumeysa M. Lacin is a passionate young scientist and environmental advocate with a deep-rooted curiosity about nature and its complex ecosystems. She graduated from Erenköy Girls High School with a major in Science and Mathematics and recently took the university entrance exam with the ambition to pursue a double major in Biology and Physics.

Beyond her formal education, Rumeysa has actively participated in various seminars, training sessions, and workshops on biodiversity, sustainability, and positive science. She has contributed to multiple initiatives, including the Ecological Literacy Training of Trainers (ToT) by Yuva Derneği, summer school programs at Kadir Has University, and events focused on bird migration and biodiversity conservation. Her commitment to environmental education led her to serve as a board member of Roots & Shoots Türkiye, where she played a key role in youth engagement and climate activism.

Since childhood, Rumeysa has been captivated by nature, spending time in the field collecting specimens, observing birds, and sharing her findings with local NGOs. Her experiences in conservation and science communication have taught her the importance of human connections in addressing environmental challenges. She aspires to become a scientist specializing in marine biology and Antarctic ecology, while also working towards the establishment of Turkey's first National History Museum.
Rumeysa envisions a future where scientific exploration and community-driven conservation efforts go hand in hand. Through her involvement in Darwin 200, she seeks to expand her knowledge, collaborate with experts, and inspire young people to take action for a sustainable future.
LOCATION: Punta del Este AREA OF STUDY: Plastic pollution
NATIONALITY: Turkey SPONSOR:
FILMMAKER: Julieta Herrera
START DATE: 26th November
END DATE: 12th December
LOCATION: Punta del Este
END POINT: Turkey
AREA OF STUDY: Plastic pollution
SPONSOR:
FILMMAKER: Julieta Herrera
Area of Study: Plastic Pollution

Rumeysa took on the topic of “Plastic Pollution in Rivers and Coasts of Montevideo” as her Darwin200 project. In it, she investigated the pervasive problem of plastic pollution along Montevideo’s waterways and coastal zones. This project combines investigative journalism, community engagement, and environmental advocacy to highlight both the sources and consequences of plastic waste in urban and marine ecosystems.

In her comprehensive approach, she examined the issue through interviews with environmental experts, local activists, community members, and policymakers. The documentary explores the ecological damage caused by plastics, the health risks to local residents, and the social responsibility of individuals and institutions. It also showcases inspiring local initiatives focused on sustainable waste management, coastal cleanups, public education, and environmental policy reform.

With this project, Rumeysa aimed to spark dialogue and action at the local level while framing the problem within a global context. By using Montevideo as a case study, the series encourages broader environmental consciousness and supports grassroots solutions. This initiative not only documents the problem but also serves as an educational tool and a call to action for sustainable living and collective responsibility in combating plastic pollution.

Project Films

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Project Reports

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