Istanbul Zero Waste Week Kicks Off with Extensive Events
Istanbul, June 1, 2026 – The “Istanbul Zero Waste Week,” coordinated by the Zero Waste Foundation and under the patronage of the Istanbul Governorship, has commenced with a comprehensive program of events. The week, running from June 1-7, aims to integrate environmental awareness into daily life across Istanbul, with a vision to transform the city into a global example for zero waste, resource efficiency, and sustainable development.
Festival and Forum at Atatürk Airport
The week’s highlights include the Zero Waste Festival, scheduled for June 4-7, and the Zero Waste Forum, taking place from June 5-7. Both major events will be held at Istanbul Atatürk Airport. Detailed information about all activities and programs across the city’s 39 districts can be accessed via the dedicated website, https://istanbulsifiratikhaftasi.org/.
This initiative is part of the Zero Waste Foundation’s ongoing efforts, guided by the vision of Emine Erdoğan, Founder of the Zero Waste Movement, Chair of the United Nations (UN) Zero Waste High-Level Advisory Board, and Honorary President of the Zero Waste Foundation. The overarching goal is to establish Istanbul as the “Zero Waste Capital” and foster a culture of sustainable living across all segments of society.
A Global Movement Rooted in Turkey
The Zero Waste Movement, initiated in Turkey in 2017 under Emine Erdoğan’s leadership, has evolved into an internationally recognized environmental model. The UN’s declaration of March 30 as the International Zero Waste Day and the establishment of the Zero Waste High-Level Advisory Board underscore Turkey’s pioneering role in this field. Istanbul Zero Waste Week is considered a powerful reflection of this global transformation at the city level, aiming to unite millions of Istanbul residents under a common consciousness regarding environmental sustainability.
First-Time Organization Sees Widespread Interest
This year marks the inaugural organization of the event, which has garnered significant interest across Istanbul’s 39 districts. Over 1,500 project applications were received with contributions from public institutions, local governments, universities, non-governmental organizations, and private sector representatives. Activities planned range from environmental education and recycling initiatives to awareness campaigns and field studies.
The events held throughout the city aim to foster lasting behavioral changes by promoting waste reduction, conscious consumption habits, and more efficient resource utilization.
Istanbul: A Hub for International Zero Waste Initiatives
Among the long-term goals of the Zero Waste Foundation is to position Istanbul as a central hub for international zero waste efforts. In line with this, numerous international organizations are expected to establish offices in the city in the coming years. The first concrete step in this direction has been the establishment of the UN Human Settlements Programme’s global zero waste center in Istanbul. This development is anticipated to strengthen Istanbul’s objective of becoming an international attraction in environmental diplomacy and sustainable urbanism.
Global Participation in the Zero Waste Forum
The Zero Waste Forum, a central event of Istanbul Zero Waste Week, will take place from June 5-7. Registrations have been received from 183 countries worldwide, with thousands of participants expected to convene in Istanbul. The forum will host over 120 ministers, more than 200 mayors, representatives from international organizations, academics, and environmental experts. Discussions will focus on circular economy, resource efficiency, climate-friendly production models, and the future of zero waste. This organization stands out as a crucial platform that enhances Turkey’s international visibility in the fields of environment and sustainability.
Energy Efficiency Takes Center Stage at the Festival
The Zero Waste Festival, organized in collaboration with the Zero Waste Foundation and the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, will bring environmental awareness to broad audiences. The festival, held at Atatürk Airport from June 4-7, will feature “Energy Efficiency” as its main theme this year. The festival will offer a variety of activities, including sustainable living practices, circular economy examples, virtual reality experiences, and children’s workshops. Visitors will have the opportunity to directly experience their environmental impact through carbon and water footprint measurement areas, a zero waste museum, educational stands, and hands-on workshops.
Beyond environmental themes, the festival will also include concerts, art events, and social activities to integrate environmental awareness into cultural life. Notable artists such as Rafet El Roman, Sinan Akçıl, Emre Aydın, Poizi, Sefo, Buray, and Ceza will perform. Special areas for children and youth will host workshops on production from recycled materials, interactive games, and competitions, while families can explore sustainable living practices. Additionally, the “Zero Waste Kitchen” area will feature practical activities demonstrating methods to prevent food waste and showcase sustainable gastronomy examples.
The Zero Waste Foundation, operating under Emine Erdoğan’s vision and patronage, emphasizes that environmental sustainability is no longer merely a subject of environmental policies but a fundamental necessity for economic development, social welfare, and the quality of life for future generations. Istanbul Zero Waste Week is expected to be a significant milestone in ensuring that this transformation is embraced by all segments of society.
“Our Biggest Motivation is to Make Istanbul the Capital of Zero Waste”
Samed Ağırbaş, President of the Zero Waste Foundation and COP31 High-Level Climate Champion, stated that the Zero Waste Foundation, established in 2023 under the patronage and leadership of Emine Erdoğan, represents a deeply rooted vision. “Our primary goal is to further expand the ‘zero waste’ philosophy initiated by the esteemed First Lady years ago, and to build a conscious society by ensuring the adoption of this awareness. Towards this noble goal, we have implemented many significant activities since our establishment,” he said.
Ağırbaş highlighted that their greatest motivation, integrating all international goals with the spirit of Istanbul, is to make Istanbul the “capital of zero waste.” He added, “We sincerely believe that this unique city, the cradle of civilizations, will lead the world in environmental awareness and waste prevention, serving as a powerful role model. We will elevate this excitement, with the strong support of Istanbul Governor Mr. Davut Gül, during Istanbul Zero Waste Week, from June 1-7. Hand in hand with our stakeholders, across various sectors from health to sports, energy to industry, we have launched a massive event to awaken zero waste consciousness throughout Istanbul. This grand organization has two main outcomes for us. First, to make Istanbul, the heart of our civilization, the ‘capital of zero waste’ that the whole world will admire. Second, through our collaboration here, to register the name ‘Istanbul Zero Waste Week’ as a new global brand and ignite the torch of a powerful movement that will spread from Istanbul to the entire world.”
Source: https://m.sabah.com.tr/yasam/istanbul-sifir-atik-haftasi-kapsamli-etkinliklerle-basladi-7594667/amp
