Türkiye has decided to phase out single-use plastics in line with the European Union’s acquis, aiming to further contribute to its environmental progress.

The Ministry of Environment, Urbanisation, and Climate Change is finalising a new regulation modelled after the EU’s Single-Use Plastics directive.

This was adopted in 2019 to prevent and reduce the environmental and human health impacts of certain plastic products.

The ban aims to significantly reduce plastic pollution by prohibiting common disposable items, such as plastic cutlery (forks, knives, spoons, and chopsticks), plates, straws, and plastic-stemmed cotton buds.

Currently in the draft stage, the regulation is expected to take effect by the end of the year following consultations with industry leaders and NGOs.

The policy encourages a shift toward sustainable alternatives made from glass, porcelain, wood, and cardboard.

The ministry estimates an annual reduction of 1.5 million tons of carbon emissions and savings of approximately 44 million dollars in waste management costs.

Future phases of the initiative will introduce stricter labelling requirements and consumption targets for composite beverage cups, food containers, wet wipes, and all types of plastic bags used for shipping.

This follows 2022 data showing that Türkiye consumed over 700,000 tons of single-use plastics.

Public sentiment strongly supports the transition.

A joint survey by the ministry and the Turkish Statistical Institute found that over 76 per cent of citizens favour restrictions on disposable plastics, while 80 per cent support a shift toward reusable materials like metal and ceramic.

This high level of public support aligns with Türkiye’s National Circular Economy Strategy and Action Plan, which was officially announced and entered into force on October 20, 2025.

This roadmap specifically targets reducing single-use plastics, marine litter, and microplastics across the country through 2028.

(NAN/AA)