Türkiye leads global sustainability.

On International Zero Waste Day, in March 2026, the government of Türkiye announced that its Zero Waste Project has recovered 90 million tons of waste, contributing approximately US$8 billion to the national economy. Launched in 2017, the initiative has evolved from a national recycling effort into an internationally recognized model for sustainable living. Beyond economics, the project has prevented an estimated 180 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions, and saved two trillion liters of water and 613 million trees. Over 217,000 buildings now operate under the Zero Waste Management System. Türkiye has established ambitious strategic targets to elevate its national recycling rate to 60% by 2035 and 70% by 2053.

Türkiye has a total of eight Shining World Leadership Awards to date for Compassion, Protection and Good Governance.

Kudos, Türkiye, for your forward-thinking initiative, which benefits both the environment and your economy. May your shining example inspire governments worldwide to adopt sustainable projects for a pristine planet, in the Supreme Divinity’s Blessings.