Turkey and Netherlands exploring the potential for circular economy

Opening remarks from TÜSİAD Board Member Cevdet Alemdar and Joep Wijnands, the Dutch Ambassador to Turkey, emphasized the critical role of international collaboration in advancing sustainability goals. Stéphanie Schuitemaker from Holland Circular Hotspot delivered a keynote speech underlining the Netherlands’ extensive knowledge and experience in the transition towards a circular economy, but also the need for more international collaboration. She highlighted the importance of transitioning from inefficient linear models, which harm the environment, to circular approaches that maximize resource efficiency and minimize waste. By showcasing examples such as product-as-a-service, resource recovery models, and the sharing economy, she demonstrated how circular business models not only tackle pressing environmental challenges but also create new economic opportunities, enhance customer relationships, and reduce costs.

The session featured a dynamic panel discussion and practical demonstrations of Turkish frontrunners integrating circularity throughout their business practices, developing circular innovation, and establishing collaborations with Dutch counterparts. Moderated by Gamze Arbak, General Manager at Philips Turkey and TÜSİAD Head of Holland Working Group, the panel included Dr. Murat Yıldırım (Zorluteks Tekstil R&D and Quality Manager), Nevra Aydoğan (Kordsa Sustainability Director), Ömer Kavlakoğlu (Evreka Business Development Manager), and Süleyman Kocasert (Saxcell Chief Marketing Officer). The contribution of Şeyda Dağdeviren Hill, Certified CIRCO Trainer, highlighted the Dutch CIRCO methodology for circular design, which demonstrated the strong collaboration between Turkish and Dutch stakeholders in driving innovation and facilitating market implementation.The discussions set a forward-looking tone for continued partnerships between Turkey and the Netherlands, laying the groundwork for shared circular solutions across key industries.

Economic mission to Istanbul, Gebze and Bursa

Interested to further explore potential and collaboration opportunities? A trade mission to Turkey with a dedicated circular track is planned early January.

Circular Economy developments in Turkey

Turkey has made remarkable strides in advancing its circular economy agenda, aligning with global climate goals and European Union directives. With a commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2053 and a 41% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, Turkey is paving the way for transformative sustainability. Key initiatives include the Zero-Waste Project, which targets a 35% municipal waste recycling rate, and the ambitious National Circular Economy Action Plan. This roadmap outlines strategic objectives to enhance infrastructure, technology, and financial mechanisms, solidifying Turkey’s proactive approach to fostering a circular economy and a greener future.