Turkiye to expand ambitious Zero Waste scheme nationwide

By Zehra Nur Duz

ANKARA (AA) - Turkiye's Zero Waste campaign, first launched by the country's first lady Emine Erdogan in 2017, is now set to expand throughout the country in order to encourage recycling.

The Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, which oversees the massive recycling campaign, will start prioritizing food and unwanted, outdated, or broken products for recycling.

Regulations on the establishment and operation of waste collection centers have been introduced, as well as for zero waste management.

Under the regulations, waste collection centers will be established for people to dispose their trash, with color coding to classify waste types, including biodegradables, glass, plastic, metal, paper, composite, vegetable oil, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and electrical and electronic appliances.

In addition, a food bank system will be introduced through the country in order to reduce food waste.

Fruits and vegetables that are thrown away will be turned into compost, with collection equipment to be placed at wholesale and public markets.

The use of disposable cups, plates, forks, spoons, knives, straws, and wet wipes will also be reduced, while excessive packaging will be prevented in shipments.

Drugs that have expired will be collected and disposed of, while textile products will be distributed to those in need.​​​​​​​