Türkiye’s zero waste project expands into lgobal movement

According to information obtained from the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, the "Zero Waste Project," launched in 2017 under the auspices of Emine Erdoğan, aims to control waste within the framework of sustainable development and leave a clean, livable world for future generations.

The project has evolved into a global environmental movement recognized by the United Nations. On December 14, 2022, the UN General Assembly declared March 30 as "International Zero Waste Day," with Türkiye as the main sponsor and 105 co-sponsoring countries.

Last year's theme was "Enough is Enough," with nationwide and international events focusing on recycling and sustainable fashion. This year, the main themes include food waste and Türkiye's COP31 presidency process. Events will be held at various UN missions worldwide, including New York, Geneva, Nairobi, Paris, Brussels, Rome, London, Berlin, and more.

Since its launch, the initiative has delivered major environmental and economic gains. A total of 217,000 buildings have adopted the Zero Waste Management System, while the recycling rate increased from 13% in 2017 to 37.53% in 2025. Türkiye aims to reach 60% by 2035 and 70% by 2053.

Around 28 million people have received zero waste education through national programs. Projects supported by the United Nations Development Programme and partnerships with municipalities, schools, and cooperatives aim to reduce plastic use and promote circular economy practices.

By the end of 2025, about 90 million tons of waste were recycled, contributing 365 billion lira to the economy. This resulted in energy savings equal to powering 54 million households for a year, water savings equal to Istanbul's two-year consumption, and the prevention of 180 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions.

The "Zero Waste Blue" initiative, launched in 2019, removed over 325,000 tons of marine waste. Türkiye ranked third globally with 577 Blue Flag beaches in 2025.

A nationwide Deposit Management System, introduced in 2025, is now active in 53 provinces, with millions of returned packages contributing to recycling and economic gains. Plans are also underway to ban single-use plastics such as cutlery, straws, and foam containers, aiming to cut carbon emissions and waste management costs.

At the UN level, Emine Erdoğan chairs the Zero Waste High-Level Advisory Board, established in 2023. The initiative has gained global support, with over 438,000 volunteers from 131 countries signing the Global Zero Waste Goodwill Declaration.

The project has received multiple international awards from organizations including Food and Agriculture Organization, World Bank, and others.

The first International Zero Waste Forum was held in Istanbul in October 2025, bringing together representatives from over 100 countries to discuss sustainability, circular economy, and climate-friendly policies.