The Turkish Zero Waste Foundation is gearing up to unveil a new global zero-waste framework at COP31, the upcoming climate conference in Türkiye. This event is set for November 9-20, 2026, primarily in Antalya, a popular resort area. The conference will gather representatives from nearly 200 countries to discuss urgent climate actions.
Samed Agirbas, the foundation’s head, stated that Türkiye aims to lead the way in tackling waste reduction and food waste, two crucial environmental issues that shape our future. “We have the chance to drive important decisions during COP31,” he said.
Established in 2023 under the guidance of Emine Erdogan, the Turkish First Lady, the foundation focuses on promoting the Zero Waste Project and ensuring its sustainability. Agirbas noted that Türkiye gained the opportunity to host COP31 after successful negotiations at COP30 held in Brazil.
In the backdrop of Türkiye’s climate diplomacy, various meetings have been organized since 2022, showing a committed effort to environmental issues. The foundation also participated in COP30, engaging with different stakeholders and organizations.
A highlight of Türkiye’s environmental advocacy came in December 2022 when a resolution led to the designation of March 30 as International Day of Zero Waste, supported by 105 countries in the U.N. General Assembly. Agirbas sees this accomplishment as an example of local efforts growing into a global movement.
Engaging the youth is also a priority for the foundation, as Agirbas believes involving younger generations in the climate conversation is vital for long-term success. The foundation’s website welcomes new ideas and project proposals from the public, promoting community participation in zero waste initiatives.
Historically, the U.N. climate conferences, known as COP meetings, have played a crucial role in shaping global climate policy since their inception in 1995. These gatherings foster collaboration and discussion about emission reduction targets, climate adaptation strategies, and financial support mechanisms for vulnerable nations.
As COP31 approaches, experts emphasize the importance of credible action plans that adapt to the realities of climate change. “This is not just about agreements on paper; it’s about creating frameworks that can effectively tackle real-world challenges,” noted climate scientist Dr. Emily Carter. Data from recent surveys suggest that nearly 70% of the global population views climate change as an urgent issue, underscoring the need for actionable solutions at events like COP31.
With a solid commitment to sustainability, Türkiye’s efforts at COP31 could inspire other nations and local communities to adopt zero-waste practices, potentially setting a new standard for environmental responsibility worldwide.
