Samed Ağırbaş, President of Zero Waste Foundation, emphasized the Türkiye-based global success of zero waste at the ‘Waste Training and Implementation Program’ organized underthe leadership of the Ministry of Family and Social Services.

Speaking at the ‘Waste Training and Implementation Program’ held at Istanbul Başakşehir Emin Saraç Cultural Center under the leadership of the Ministry of Family and Social Services, Samed Ağırbaş, President of the Zero Waste Foundation, stated that the zero waste approach is not only an environmental movement; it is a sustainable way of life that has its roots in the ancient life culture of Anatolia.‍

Zero Waste Vision Transformed from a National Movement to a Global Success

Starting his speech with the words "I greet you on behalf of the Zero Waste Foundation established under the Chairmanship of Mrs. Emine Erdoğan", Mr. Ağırbaş pointed out that zero waste is not only an environmental but also a cultural consciousness and said the following:

"Zero Waste is actually a reflection of civilization, a way of life. This understanding is based on Anatolia's thousands of years of values and a culture of austerity. We have a strong intention on this path: As members of a faith that considers waste as haram and a society that has adopted frugal living as a principle, we are teaching zero waste awareness to the modern world. This movement, which was initiated by Mrs. Emine Erdoğan in 2017, has today turned into a global environmental project that has become an example for 193 countries at the United Nations."

Mr. Ağırbaş stated that the declaration of March 30 as International Zero Waste Day and the election of Mrs. Emine Erdoğan as the Chairperson of the UN High-Level Personalities Advisory Board showed our leadership in this field to the whole world.

Zero Waste is Now a Global Brand

In 2022, on the initiative of Mrs. Emine Erdoğan, March 30 was declared ‘International Zero Waste Day’ by the United Nations General Assembly. Then, the Advisory Board of High-Level Personalities, which was also established by a UN General Assembly resolution, is chaired by Mrs. Emine Erdoğan. The decisions taken by the Board are presented as recommendations to member states by the UN Secretary-General. This is the success of a brand that Türkiye has gifted to the world.

Stating that the Zero Waste Movement has become a common brand not only for Türkiye but also for the whole world, Ağırbaş thanked all public institutions, non-governmental organizations and universities for embracing this awareness.

In his speech, Mr. Ağırbaş drew attention to the embracing approach of the Ministry of Family and Social Services and stated that the Ministry's support for social awareness on zero waste and recycling through projects carried out in 81 provinces is admirable.

Seeking Solutions to Global Challenges with New Campaigns

Referring to the current projects carried out by the Zero Waste Foundation, Ağırbaş said that a new campaign for the protection of oceans and seas was launched in cooperation with the United Nations, and that the national campaign “Are You Aware?” announced on June 5, World Environment Day raised awareness on domestic consumption habits.

Microplastics in the Food Chain

Stating that more than 8 million tons of plastic waste is mixed into the seas every year, Ağırbaş said that these wastes turn into microplastics over time, reach the food chain and pose a threat to human health.

Concluding his speech with an emphasis on responsibility for the future, Mr. Ağırbaş stated that the Zero Waste Foundation continues to work with projects that produce no waste, do not pollute the environment and promote recyclable products. He invited all individuals andorganizations to join this important journey.

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