Turkey expands free Zero Waste public beach project to 15 locations

The Turkish Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change has expanded its 'Public Beach Project' to include 15 beaches across five provinces, utilizing a 'Zero Waste' concept. The initiative, led by Minister Murat Kurum, aims to guarantee free public access to coastlines while promoting environmental sustainability.

Spanning approximately 24,682 square meters in the Aegean, Mediterranean, and Marmara regions, the project is expected to serve an average of 636,000 visitors annually. Facilities at these locations include 784 umbrellas and shades, as well as free access to showers and toilets. Visitors are permitted to bring their own food and beverages, while ministry-operated buffets will follow a policy of affordable pricing.

Recent expansions include the opening of the Göcek public beach in Muğla, which was cleared of boat encroachments. Other newly accessible locations include Altınkum and Pamuk Ovası in Çeşme, Kumdenizi in Urla, Sarımsaklı in Ayvalık, Gaziömer in Enez, and Kısalar in Manavgat. The project is a collaborative effort between the General Directorate of Protection of Natural Assets and the Coastal Management and Environmental Protection Inc., an affiliate of the Turkey Environmental Protection Foundation.