SÜT-D Issues Statement on Recycling Day

Statement from SÜT-D on World Recycling Day Prof. Dr. Filiz Karaosmanoğlu, Faculty Member at Istanbul Technical University and Chair of the Sustainable Production and Consumption Association, has issued a special statement marking 18 March World Recycling Day, emphasizing the importance of recyclables as the seventh natural resource and calling for the protection of our planet through support for recycling.

Not waste, but domestic raw materials for our industry

Prof. Dr. Filiz Karaosmanoğlu, Faculty Member at Istanbul Technical University and Chair of SÜT-D, stated that we generate waste wherever life occurs—at home, at work, at school, on the road, in fields and forests—as we produce and consume. If we do not manage our waste optimally, our environment becomes polluted, our climate changes, aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems deteriorate, and human and natural health suffer. Emphasizing that products and packaging that have completed their useful lifespan are not waste but valuable raw materials for our industry, she called for incorporating recyclables into our circular economy, creating income and employment.

Green opportunities exist in the power of recyclables

"Billions of tons of resources are being consumed worldwide as if they will never run out. Yet resources are limited and rapidly depleting. Environmental pollution, climate change, wars, poverty, migration, job losses and health crises are urgent problems we must solve. We should pause and think about what we throw away. While recyclables meet 40 percent of the world's raw material needs, 1.6 million people are employed. With annual investments of USD 20 million, the sector's contribution to Global Gross Domestic Product is projected to exceed USD 400 billion within the next decade. Recyclables reduce carbon dioxide emissions by over 700 million tons annually—equivalent to offsetting aviation-related emissions," Prof. Karaosmanoğlu said, adding that our waste is our green opportunity.

Do not discard, sort separately, do not waste our waste

Dr. Karaosmanoğlu stated: "When purchasing our products, let us pay attention to durability and repairability, and not forget reuse options. Let us live with the goal of less consumption and less waste. Let us not waste. After designating a product or packaging as waste, let us not throw recyclables away but sort them separately. Let us know where and how to give what. If we don't know, let us ask our district municipalities. Let us certainly not waste our waste. Let us know the location of the nearest recycling bin. Let us be the citizens who best manage our waste, protect the green and blue of our beautiful country, and contribute recyclables to our national economy," emphasizing that recycling starts with us.