Within the scope of the “Medicinal and Aromatic Plant Cultivation Project” (TABİP) initiated by Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality 4 years ago, rosemary, mint, lemon balm and thyme are grown in approximately 1140 decares of land throughout the province. This project aims to increase the income level of farmers and support agricultural development.
Harvesting of thyme planted in an area of 37 hectares has started last year. Thyme harvesting is carried out not only by human power, but also by using a trailer-loading aromatic plant harvester designed and produced by the Metropolitan Municipality. Thanks to this machine, harvesting is done quickly and without damaging the plants.
Metropolitan Municipality Sekapark A.Ş. Under its control, all stages of agricultural activities are carried out in accordance with international standards. Insurance of the lands where seedlings are planted is also provided in this process. Agricultural engineers and technical team provide consultancy services to farmers during the planting process.
Medicinal and aromatic plants obtained within the scope of the TABİP project are processed in the Distillation Center and Super Critical Fluid Extraction Facility of the Metropolitan Municipality. The essential oils obtained here are used in the pharmaceutical, food supplement and cosmetic industries.