The closing ceremony of the Technical Assistance for Assessing Türkiye’s Potential for Transition to a Circular Economy (DEEP Project) Project, supported under IPA II, was held with the participation of our Deputy Minister, Ms. Fatma Varank.

In his speech, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Head of the European Union, Ambassador Mehmet Kemal Bozay, emphasised the environmental cooperation between Turkey and the EU and addressed the importance of transitioning to a circular economy in line with sustainable development goals.

Deputy Minister of Environment, Urbanisation and Climate Change, Ms Fatma Varank, drew attention to the steps taken by Turkey in the areas of environmental sustainability, resource management and the circular economy. In her speech, she noted that population growth and consumption habits are increasing pressure on natural resources and touched upon the effects of climate change, particularly felt in the Mediterranean basin. She stated that Turkey continues to contribute to a sustainable future with pioneering initiatives such as the Zero Waste Project.

Mr Mihail Dimovski, Team Leader of the DEEP Project, shared a general assessment of the project process and the achievements made over the past three years. Highlighting the contributions of the DEEP Project to Turkey’s transition to a circular economy, Mr Dimovski emphasised the cooperation achieved and the gains made during this process.
Subsequently, Ms Sabriye Ayhan, Head of the Circular Economy and Waste Management Department, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the National Circular Economy Strategy and Action Plan and the National Roadmap on Single-Use Plastics and Marine Litter. She shared important information about Turkey’s sustainable waste management policies and the steps to be taken in the transition to a circular economy.

We would like to extend our gratitude to all institutions and colleagues who contributed to the project.