Türkiye leads Zero Waste efforts as COP31 host approaches
Türkiye marked International Zero Waste Day by reaffirming its leadership in sustainable consumption and production. The UN designated March 30 as Zero Waste Day in 2022 following Türkiye’s initiative under First Lady Emine Erdoğan. Ankara will prioritize the approach during its COP31 presidency later this year.
Türkiye underscored its pioneering role in global environmental sustainability on Monday as the world observed the International Day of Zero Waste. The Turkish Foreign Ministry issued a statement noting that March 30 was designated by a UN General Assembly resolution in 2022—an effort championed by First Lady Emine Erdoğan, whose leadership has placed Türkiye at the forefront of the Zero Waste Movement.
A global initiative rooted in Türkiye
“The International Day of Zero Waste strengthens efforts to address the waste crisis and promote sustainable production and consumption,” the ministry stated. The initiative, which began in Türkiye in 2017, has since evolved into an internationally recognized environmental movement, with the UN acknowledging Ankara’s central role in advancing sustainable waste management practices worldwide.
COP31 presidency to showcase leadership
As Türkiye prepares to assume the presidency and host the 31st Conference of the Parties (COP31) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change in Antalya from November 9 to 20, 2026, the ministry confirmed that the Zero Waste approach will be a central priority throughout the COP31 process. The upcoming conference will provide a platform for Türkiye to showcase its environmental leadership and encourage broader international cooperation on sustainable development.
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