Waste Management: 4.5 Trillion Dollar Economic Potential!

Minister Bayraktar made striking statements in the closing session of the International Zero Waste Forum organized by the Zero Waste Foundation, which was attended by the ministries of environment, urban planning, and climate change, as well as United Nations organizations. The minister stated that the zero waste understanding is not limited to environmental policies, but also expresses a radical change in resource management.

Pointing out that 2.1 billion tons of solid waste are produced worldwide each year, Bayraktar noted that only 19 percent of this massive amount is recycled and only 11 percent is incinerated for energy production. This situation highlights the importance of waste management both in terms of environmental sustainability and economically.

Minister Bayraktar pointed to the enormous potential that can be gained for the economy through the proper management of waste. The zero waste approach not only reduces environmental pollution but also creates new job opportunities, allowing us to use resources more efficiently. Comprehensive improvements in waste management worldwide could create a total economic value of 4.5 trillion dollars.

In order to reach this potential, the minister emphasized the importance of improving recycling processes and raising awareness in society, stating that waste can be evaluated more effectively in line with sustainable development goals. In this context, he indicated that waste should be thought of as raw material.

Bayraktar stressed that such collaborations between ministries and international organizations should play an active role in solving environmental issues, conveying that every individual must also carry this responsibility. However, a more livable and sustainable world is possible only if every segment of society fulfills its duties in this regard.