Date Added: 25 January 2023

A trial process for “Zero Waste” at all public departments and government offices has begun, the Deputy Prime Minister-Minister of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Environment Fikri Ataoğlu has announced.

Ataoğlu said that other measures to protect the environment were also being introduced in addition to the zero waste policy.

Announcing the launch of the trial phase of “Zero Waste” at all public and government offices, the Deputy Prime Minister-Minister of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Environment Fikri Ataoğlu said that achieving the goal of zero waste was extremely important for them.

He said that the trial period for the project will continue until zero waste is achieved.

Ataoğlu also said that other measures were being implemented as part of efforts to protect, preserve and conserve the environment.

“We have put into operation a system that constantly monitors waste levels along the coastline. We shall be awarding blue flags to beaches and resorts which protect their bathing waters and coastlines. This practice will also be extended to fishing harbours, marinas and boats. Boats and trawlers which return with their waste for recycling will be awarded blue cards,” he said.

The Minister of Environment also reminded the introduction of a ban on the use of single-use plastics which will come into force in the coming months.

“According to global figures, a single plastic bag is used for 12 minutes but it takes over 1000 years for it to dissolve back into the environment. We had first introduced the practice of charging people for plastic bags at supermarkets which had contributed greatly to reducing waste. However this was later abandoned,” he added.

Ataoğlu said that all single-use plastics will be banned as of July 11, 2023 following a six-month grace period and that any establishment which violates this ban will be issued serious fines.

He added that businesses which currently manufacture plastic bags and single-use plastics will be offered incentives and loans to switch their production to alternative environmentally friendly products.