In recent years, the European Union (EU) has been using recyclable waste trade as a significant tool in its efforts to create a sustainable economy and reduce its environmental impact. The EU’s waste management policies in this regard are becoming more prominent, especially with the changes observed in export and import data.
Turkey’s Strategic Position in Recyclable Waste Trade
According to Eurostat data, in 2022, a total of 32.1 million tons of recyclable waste were exported from EU countries. Approximately 39% of this amount, or 12.4 million tons, was sent to Turkey. Turkey has become the largest importer of recyclable waste in the EU. However, while processing these wastes, Turkey’s situation is not entirely optimistic.
Turkey’s ability to process recyclable materials imported from the EU supports the EU’s waste management targets. This cooperation encourages the development of Turkey’s recycling infrastructure and contributes to environmental sustainability.
Turkey’s strategic position in recyclable waste trade aligns with the EU’s environmental sustainability policies and provides mutual benefits.
Recyclable Paper and Plastic Waste Processed through Eco-Friendly Methods
Among the top 5 partners in the import of recyclable paper outside the EU, four are European countries. The exception is the United States, which accounts for 29% of recyclable paper imports outside the EU. The United Kingdom had a higher share at 31%. Major partners in the export of recyclable paper outside the EU included India (32%), Indonesia (17%), and Vietnam (13%).
The high export figures for paper and plastic waste reflect the EU’s efforts to reduce its environmental impact by shifting towards recycling solutions that consume less energy. The export of paper waste reaching 6.95 million tons shows the EU’s effectiveness in the recycling sector.
Turkey’s Plastic Waste Imports and Environmental Impact
Turkey is one of the main importers of plastic waste exported by the EU. In 2022, Turkey imported a total of 1.327 million tons of plastic waste from the EU. In this process, Turkey aims to reduce environmental pollution by processing the plastic waste in a controlled manner.
Turkey’s commercial relationship with the EU not only generates economic value but also provides environmental benefits. By increasing its recycling capacity, Turkey contributes to the EU’s environmentally friendly policies.
Rising Demand for Glass Waste Imports
The EU also has a surplus in the import of recyclable glass products. As of 2022, the EU imported 817 thousand tons of glass, as the glass recycling capacity in some member countries is insufficient, leading to the need for external procurement.
Economic Benefits and Industrial Use Potential
Turkey can use the recyclable products it imports in local industries as raw materials. Particularly in ferrous metals, Turkey reduces production costs through imports, supporting eco-friendly development in industrial production.
Economic Contributions Along with Environmental Impacts
The trade of recyclable waste deepens the cooperation between the EU and Turkey, while also contributing to the reduction of environmental impacts and sustainable development goals. This cooperation model will play a crucial role in the future, helping the EU achieve its sustainability targets by increasing the capacity of the recycling sector.
Turkey’s emergence as a hub for recyclable waste presents both economic and environmental opportunities, but it also carries significant risks and potential harms. If not managed properly, Turkey’s position as a recycling and waste processing hub could lead to serious environmental, economic, and public health issues. Without sustainable and controlled policies, environmental protection measures, and advanced waste management systems, the potential damages could outweigh the benefits.