Türkiye rises in global afforestation ranks for net-zero goal

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has underscored Türkiye's progress in environmental conservation, linking extensive afforestation efforts to the nation's 2053 net-zero emission ambition. Speaking at a National Afforestation Day event in Ankara, he reported that 7.5 billion saplings have been planted since 2000, expanding forested areas to 23.4 million hectares and covering nearly one-third of Türkiye's land, a key step in combating climate change.

Global Rankings

According to UN statistics cited by Erdogan, Türkiye has jumped from sixth place in 2020 to fourth globally in forest expansion by 2025, and now holds third position for annual afforestation area. This aligns with the Green Development Revolution vision, designed to enhance sustainability and reduce carbon emissions through proactive reforestation and ecological restoration projects across the country.

New Initiatives

The president launched a nationwide campaign under the motto “Our Witness is the Soil, Our Signature is the Sapling, Our Love is the Green Homeland,” targeting 550 million saplings this year with aspirations to exceed 600 million through public involvement. He also paid tribute to 160 forestry personnel who lost their lives in service, including 17 during recent wildfires, emphasizing the risks faced in protecting natural resources.

Cultural and Policy Context

Erdogan evoked traditional values by quoting an Islamic principle: “Even if you know the world will end tomorrow, plant the sapling in your hand,” stressing that forests are vital to national life. National Afforestation Day on November 11, established in 2019 after a citizen's proposal, continues to promote environmental awareness, supporting Türkiye's long-term strategy for a greener economy and ecological resilience.