The Zero Waste Foundation’s “Zero Waste Ideathon” brought together creative and environmentally conscious young minds to promote awareness and develop sustainable solutions. Held on May 24, 2025, and hosted by the Zero Waste Foundation, the event featured zero-waste-themed project development sessions, inspiring keynote speeches, and hands-on workshops.
MP Rumeysa Kadak Supports Young Participants
Students and graduates from across Türkiye – at high school, undergraduate, and graduate levels – competed to present their eco-friendly projects before a panel of judges. Among the guests was AK Party Istanbul MP Rumeysa Kadak, one of Türkiye’s youngest parliamentarians, who joined the event to support the youth. The Ideathon also attracted environmental volunteers, academics, and industry professionals.
Participants not only showcased innovative ideas but also engaged in interactive activities such as Carbon Footprint and Water Footprint Calculations, and shared personal environmental pledges on the Eco Pledge Wall.
Creative Ideas Take the Stage
Out of more than 100 team applications, 40 teams were selected to compete. At the end of the event, three teams were awarded the main prizes, while two teams received the Audience Choice Award.
- 🥇 First Prize:
"Green Café" project by Atıkon Team, using recyclable materials, earned great appreciation. - 🥈 Second Prize:
"ONXT Ecosystem", an app prototype for recycling electronic waste developed by UPNXT Team, won the second prize. - 🥉 Third Prize:
The 42Mystery Team presented "Zero Waste", a mobile app that rewards eco-friendly actions, securing the third place. - ⭐️ Audience Choice Award:
Verivizyon Team with "Sıfır Byte", a digital waste cleaning app, and Genç Motivasyon Team with "Geri Dönüşümle Kazanacağım", received the Audience Choice Award.
“Zero Waste is a Civilizational Ideal”
Speaking at the event, Zero Waste Foundation President Samed Ağırbaş emphasized the importance of youth engagement:
“Zero waste is not just an environmental policy; it is a civilizational approach that paves the way for a fairer, more livable, and sustainable world. We see this movement as a key solution to climate change, ecological crises, and global injustices.”
“Remember, the future’s leaders, ministers, academics, and even parents are among us today. You will be the strongest advocates and flag-bearers of this movement. Zero Waste is a movement of awareness and transformation for all — from age 7 to 77. If we instill this consciousness from an early age, we can build a society that produces less waste, uses resources wisely, and respects nature.”
“Youth Innovation Strengthens Our Hope for the Future”
President Ağırbaş also praised the creativity displayed during the competition:
“The innovative ideas we witnessed throughout the Ideathon clearly show how eager and aware young people are of the need for sustainability. These contributions reinforce our optimism for the future.”
This meaningful event not only encouraged young people to develop practical solutions to environmental problems but also increased public awareness. Mentorship support will be provided to the participants after the competition, helping them to bring their projects to life.
