Earthquake strategy for sustainable infrastructure in Turkey

The magnitude 7.4 Izmit earthquake in north-west Turkey in 1999 resulted in 17 127 deaths, 43 959 injuries and extensive property and infrastructure damage. The event highlighted a national lack of seismic design and construction codes. After recovering from the initial effects of the Izmit earthquake, work started on a national earthquake strategy and action plan by public organisations, institutions, academics and practitioners. This paper provides an overview of the efforts to date to achieve safe, earthquake-resilient and sustainable urban infrastructure in Turkey.