Ethica has built a solid foundation in Finland and other Nordic markets for 11 years, where its circular economy expertise has supported high-impact green transition projects. Our focus now is to use this experience to help Turkish companies connect with global markets and increase their competitiveness through practical circular economy solutions.

We are committed to leading Türkiye’s green transition through strategic discussions and practical projects. In early September, we had the opportunity to hold productive meetings in Ankara and Istanbul, discussing circular economy and green transition with key stakeholders such as the Ministry of Industry and Technology, the Ministry of Environment, Urbanisation and Climate Change, the Ministry of Trade and the Directorate General for Financial Cooperation and Project Implementation of the Presidency of the European Union, as well as other association and private sector leaders.

“We are committed to leading the way in Türkiye’s green transition through strategic discussions and practical projects”.

Türkiye’s commitment to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2053 is a crucial step towards global climate action. At the same time, the European Union’s Green Deal and Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) impose strict sustainability standards that directly impact Turkish businesses, particularly those focused on exports. The CBAM aims to ensure that goods imported into the EU meet the same climate standards as those produced within the bloc. As a result, Turkish companies need to quickly adopt green practices to maintain market access and competitiveness.

Our meetings covered several key topics, including strategies for implementing the green transition and circular economy in Türkiye, integrating green transition processes into the industrial and commercial sectors, policies and projects for environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation, and the European Union’s contributions to the green transition and circular economy. Circular design and the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) were also highlighted as essential to ensure that products are designed to be durable, repairable and recyclable.

“By adopting circular economy practices early, businesses can strengthen their competitive position both locally and internationally.”

The global shift towards a circular economy presents a clear opportunity for Turkish businesses to differentiate themselves in the marketplace. By embracing circular economy practices early, businesses can strengthen their competitive position both locally and internationally. Aligning with the EU’s Green Deal and CBAM regulations is not only a matter of compliance, but also a strategic advantage in an increasingly eco-conscious market.

At Ethica, we are committed to supporting Turkish businesses in their green transition, using the valuable insights gained from these important discussions. The road ahead offers a unique opportunity for Turkish companies to position themselves as leaders in the emerging green economy, driving long-term resilience and success.

Text by: Kardelen Deveci Nurbas 

References: 

  1. Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, https://taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu/carbon-border-adjustment-mechanism_en 
  2. European Commission (2020) Circular economy action plan: For a cleaner and more competitive Europe. https://ec.europa.eu/environment/circular-economy/ 
  3. Ecodesign requirements for sustainable products, amending Directive (EU) (2024) Regulation – EU – 2024/1781 – EN – EUR-Lex  
  4. Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change. Paris Agreement. https://iklim.gov.tr/en/paris-agreement-i-117