Zero Waste Foundation President addresses plastic pollution and global climate goals

Samed Ağırbaş, President of the Zero Waste Foundation and COP31 High-Level Climate Champion, has highlighted the need for cross-sector coordination to combat plastic pollution in Turkey. Following field studies in Adana, Mersin, Muğla, and Antalya, Ağırbaş noted that plastic pollution sources vary by region, impacting tourism, fishing, and local economies. He emphasized that managing plastic requires a traceable system from production to post-use, rather than just collection.

Additionally, Ağırbaş represented Turkey’s environmental vision at the UNCCD COP17 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. During the conference, he promoted the Zero Waste Movement—initiated by Emine Erdoğan—and discussed its contributions to the circular economy and climate change mitigation. He noted significant international interest in Turkey’s preparations to host COP31.