In less than a decade, a project launched in Türkiye has grown into a global environmental movement. Led by Emine Erdogan, the Zero Waste initiative is now being recognized worldwide for changing how countries deal with waste.
Originally started in 2017 as a national recycling effort, the project has expanded far beyond Türkiye. Today, it is supported at the United Nations level and is highlighted during the International Day of Zero Waste, showing its global influence.
The results in Türkiye are significant:
- 90 million tonnes of waste recycled back into the economy
- 365 billion Turkish liras generated in economic value
- Recycling rates increased from 13% in 2017 to over 37% in 2025
And the goals are even bigger, aiming for 60% recycling by 2035 and 70% by 2053.
Beyond recycling, the project has had major environmental benefits:
- Energy savings equal to powering 54 million homes
- Water savings equivalent to two years of Istanbul’s consumption
- 180 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions avoided
Experts say the initiative now goes beyond waste—it also focuses on saving energy and water, and reducing environmental damage on a large scale.
With Türkiye preparing for a leadership role in upcoming global climate discussions, the Zero Waste movement is becoming a key example of how local action can lead to global change.
Source: TRT News
