Turkey Promotes Global Zero-Waste Initiative at COP31 to Strengthen Climate Action

Turkey has called for greater international cooperation on waste reduction and sustainable resource management during the United Nations COP31 Climate Change Conference in Antalya. The country presented its zero-waste initiative as an important strategy for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and encouraging environmentally responsible consumption.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan urged participating nations to adopt circular economy practices that prioritise reusing, repairing and recycling materials instead of sending them to landfills. The initiative aims to reduce environmental pollution, conserve natural resources and minimise emissions associated with waste disposal.

According to figures highlighted during the conference, Turkey's recycling rate increased from approximately 13% in 2017 to 40% by the end of 2025. The country has also reportedly recovered around 90 million tonnes of waste, returning valuable materials to productive economic use.

The proposed international initiative places particular emphasis on reducing food waste, improving recycling infrastructure and controlling methane emissions. Methane, a powerful greenhouse gas released during the decomposition of organic waste, remains a significant contributor to global warming.

Experts have also highlighted the environmental benefits of recovering valuable minerals from discarded products. Improved recycling of critical minerals could potentially reduce the demand for new mining activities by 25–40% by 2050.

However, environmental specialists cautioned that achieving meaningful results would require substantial investment, efficient waste collection systems and stronger policy implementation. Questions were also raised about Turkey's methane emissions and its decision not to join the Global Methane Pledge.

The discussions at COP31 highlighted the growing importance of integrating waste management, resource efficiency and circular economy principles into international climate strategies.

11-11-2026