An Imported Problem?

Abstract

This chapter examines the impact of plastic waste on the environment in Türkiye, a major importer and generator of plastic waste. Poor waste management exacerbates the harmful effects of plastic waste on the land, the seas, and the air. We analyze whether waste management litigation and practices in Türkiye are in conformity with the country’s obligations under the Basel Convention. We further evaluate the impact of Türkiye’s waste management on plastic waste in Turkish seas according to regional sea regimes in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. Lastly, we consider the emissions from plastic waste in Türkiye and argue that they are detrimental for air quality and for the achievement of the objectives of the United Nations climate change regime. Türkiye struggles to manage the large amount of plastic waste it generates and imports. This chapter indicates that Türkiye’s plastic waste management practices have serious environmental consequences. These practices also raise concerns about the country’s ability to fulfill its commitments and obligations under the aforementioned multilateral environmental agreements. Considering the country’s position in ongoing Plastic Treaty negotiations, a significant improvement in plastic waste management seems unlikely. We suggest that Türkiye withdraws itself from being a subject of the transfer of plastic waste pollution and improves its waste management practices by focusing on the execution of domestic regulations that comply with international standards.