31.08.2026 14:41
The Times described Turkey's deposit return system as one of the most advanced in the world. It was noted that the system, with an annual capacity of 25 billion packaging units, a $1 billion contribution to the current account deficit, and a target of 20,000 jobs, could serve as a model for the United Kingdom.
The Times newspaper highlighted Türkiye's Deposit-Bearing Packaging (DOA) System, implemented nationwide on July 1, as "one of the world's most advanced deposit return systems."
In the report published by the London-based publication The Times, Türkiye's practices in deposit management and recycling, as well as the assessments of COP31 President and Minister of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change Murat Kurum, were featured.
The report noted that the DOA System, operated in Türkiye with QR codes, digital tracking infrastructure, and return vending machines, could serve as a model for the United Kingdom.
It was emphasized that Türkiye's model stands out in terms of retaining resources within the country and reintroducing strategic raw materials into the economy.
CAPACITY TO PROCESS APPROXIMATELY 25 BILLION PACKAGING UNITS PER YEAR
The report stated that citizens in Türkiye can deliver recyclable packaging to the system and receive their deposit fees into their digital wallets, and that the system has the capacity to process approximately 25 billion packaging units per year.
Also addressing the economic and employment dimensions of the system, the report noted that the implementation is expected to contribute approximately $1 billion to reducing the current account deficit and create employment for around 20,000 people.
"IT HAS ACHIEVED HIGHER COLLECTION AND RECYCLING RATES"
Minister Kurum, whose views were included in the report, drew attention to the importance of deposit return systems in increasing recycling rates.
Kurum stated, "This system has achieved higher collection and recycling rates wherever it has been implemented. Our experience shows that a well-designed deposit return system can provide high-quality recycled material to industry."