Turkey’s First Climate Law: A New Era of Green Transformation

Turkey is preparing to take a new step in the fight against climate change by introducing its first Climate Law. The draft law, prepared by the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change, consists of 20 articles, 2 transitional provisions, and amendments to 3 different laws. It represents a critical step toward Turkey’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2053.

The draft includes regulations on emissions trading systems (ETS), the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), green taxonomy, water management, and climate education. This law will not only impact industrial and energy sectors but also cities, agriculture, water resources, and even the education system, aiming for a comprehensive green transformation.

Key Features of the Climate Law

1. Establishment of the Climate Change Authority

The new law will create a Climate Change Authority responsible for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, regulating carbon markets, and managing the Emissions Trading System (ETS). This authority will work closely with industries and the production sector.

Additionally, it will oversee market-based mechanisms such as carbon pricing and allocation plans.

2. Implementation of the Emissions Trading System (ETS)

The Emissions Trading System (ETS) is a market-based mechanism that ensures industrial companies operate within a designated emissions cap. Companies exceeding this limit will face financial penalties.

Through ETS, Turkey aims to develop a model aligned with the EU and other international markets, supporting the transition of industries to a low-carbon economy.

The ETS includes:

• Allocation of emission permits to companies
• Financial penalties for exceeding emission limits
• Incentives for investments in low-carbon production

 

3. Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) to Maintain Competitiveness

The European Union will fully implement the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) by 2026. This mechanism will impose a carbon price on imported goods from carbon-intensive sectors based on their emissions footprint.

The new law will help Turkish exporters comply with CBAM regulations. This will ensure Turkey’s competitiveness in international markets and prevent companies from avoiding carbon costs.

4. Promoting Sustainable Finance through Green Taxonomy

Turkey plans to introduce a green taxonomy to align its financial sector with investments in sustainable projects.

• Banks and financial institutions will be encouraged to finance green projects.
• New financial models such as green bonds and carbon credits will be developed.

5. Resilient Cities and Sustainable Agriculture

The draft law extends beyond industry to include urban planning, agriculture, and water management.

• Climate-friendly urban planning projects will be promoted.
• Efficient water management and sustainable irrigation in agriculture will be improved.
• Measures to reduce the carbon footprint in livestock farming will be implemented.

 

6. Integration of Climate Change into the Education System

The law also includes critical measures for climate education:

• Climate change will be integrated into the national curriculum.
• Universities will introduce new sustainability-related programs and certification courses.

Conclusion

This law marks a significant milestone in Turkey’s journey toward achieving net-zero emissions by 2053. Once enacted, it will impact multiple sectors, from industry and agriculture to finance, making Turkey more resilient to the climate crisis.

Source: csb.gov.tr