17.03.2026 14:20
Turkey is preparing to take a critical role in global climate diplomacy with the Zero Waste Week and COP31 preparations to be held in Istanbul. During this process, which is expected to involve more than 150 countries, zero waste projects are being promoted both locally and internationally. The goal is to make Istanbul the "capital of zero waste."
According to the information in the Zero Waste Foundation's February 2026 e-bulletin, Turkey continues to take globally significant steps in environmental and climate policies. The preparations for the "Zero Waste Week" to be held in Istanbul and the ongoing efforts aim to make Turkey one of the centers of international climate diplomacy.
WIDELY PARTICIPATED PREPARATIONS FOR ISTANBUL ZERO WASTE WEEK
A comprehensive coordination process has been initiated with the participation of public institutions, local governments, and non-governmental organizations for the Istanbul Zero Waste Week, which will take place from June 1-7, 2026. Efforts carried out under the auspices of the Istanbul Governorship aim to include all stakeholders of the city in the process.
Zero Waste Foundation President Samed Ağırbaş emphasized that their goal is to make Istanbul the "capital of zero waste," while Istanbul Governor Davut Gül pointed out that zero waste should become a way of life.
COP31 PREPARATIONS GAINED MOMENTUM
Critical meetings were held in Istanbul ahead of the COP31 summit, which will be hosted by Turkey in November 2026. In the initial meeting attended by representatives from Turkey, Australia, Azerbaijan, Brazil, and the United Nations, the roadmap and strategic priorities for the summit were determined.
As part of the efforts carried out by the Zero Waste Foundation, the aim is to position the zero waste approach as a transformative model in global climate policies.
INTERNATIONAL COOPERATIONS AND DIPLOMATIC TRAFFIC
Foundation President Samed Ağırbaş held discussions in Washington with the World Bank and international organizations regarding climate-friendly investments and new financing models. Possible collaborations with Singapore and Germany were also brought to the agenda.
These contacts are considered an important part of Turkey's goal to spread its zero waste vision on a global scale.
NEW MODEL PROJECTS IN RIZE AND GAZIANTEP
As part of the efforts carried out across Turkey, the target of "2027 Zero Waste Year" was announced for Gaziantep, while the "Waste-Free Plateaus" project is being implemented in Rize. The project aims to reduce waste formation at the source in natural areas and strengthen environmental sustainability.
The model to be applied in the pilot plateaus identified in Rize is expected to serve as an example both nationally and internationally.
PARTICIPATION EXPECTED FROM 150 COUNTRIES
Participation from over 150 countries is anticipated for the events to be organized as part of the Istanbul Zero Waste Week. Organizations such as the Zero Waste Forum and festival aim to involve both the public and private sectors as well as citizens in the process.
Additionally, the "Istanbul Commitment" plans to reduce plastic usage and promote circular economy models.
TRAFFIC AND CARBON EMISSION WARNING
Another notable headline in the bulletin was the increasing traffic and carbon emissions in cities. It was emphasized that drivers in Istanbul spend an average of 118 hours in traffic each year, which creates significant environmental and economic costs.
The Zero Waste Foundation stated that the widespread adoption of sustainable transportation policies plays a critical role in combating the climate crisis.