Over 2 Million Citizens Register for Turkey's Deposit Return System

Turkey's Deposit Return System (DOA) has seen over 2 million citizens register within 17 days of its nationwide launch on July 1, 2024. Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change Minister Murat Kurum announced that more than 33 million packaging items have been collected through the system. Istanbul leads in the number of returned packages. The initiative aims to reduce waste and promote recycling across the country, with citizens receiving deposits for returning eligible packaging such as plastic bottles and cans. The rapid adoption indicates strong public engagement with the new environmental policy.

Global Impact

Economically, the program could reduce Turkey's waste management costs and create a secondary market for recycled materials, potentially lowering raw material imports. Politically, it strengthens the government's environmental credentials ahead of elections.