International CO₂ management models illustrate how countries pursue emission reductions through different approaches. From Europe’s ETS and Norway’s storage projects to Asia’s large markets and U.S. technology investments, these experiences.
As the impacts of climate change become increasingly evident worldwide, countries are adopting different approaches to carbon management. Policies and technologies aimed at reducing emissions are of both environmental and economic significance. Türkiye’s climate policies, developed within the framework of its net zero 2053 target, are also shaped by these international experiences.
The European Union has been implementing the Emissions Trading System (ETS) since 2005, taking a leading role in carbon pricing. Under this system, companies in certain sectors receive emission allowances, which can be traded on the market. Over time, the scope of the ETS has been expanded to include energy, industry, and aviation.
In addition, Norway’s Northern Lights project is notable in the field of carbon capture and storage (CCS). In this initiative, CO₂ captured from industrial facilities is liquefied, transported, and injected into geological formations beneath the North Sea to ensure long-term and safe storage.
China launched a national ETS in 2021. In its first phase, the system covers the energy sector and is considered the world’s largest carbon market in potential. China plans to gradually expand the scope to other industries.
South Korea became the first Asian country to introduce an ETS in 2015. The South Korean model is distinguished by its use of digital reporting tools, which enhance the traceability and transparency of emission data.
The United States does not yet operate a nationwide ETS at the federal level. However, California’s Emissions Trading System is regarded as one of the most advanced regional examples, covering the energy, transport, and industrial sectors.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is also making significant investments in carbon capture and storage technologies. These projects aim to capture CO₂ from industrial facilities, inject it underground, or convert it into chemical products.
Türkiye has taken important steps in line with its net zero 2053 target. The Climate Law, adopted in 2025, laid the legal foundation for a national ETS. A pilot phase is scheduled for 2026, with full implementation planned for 2027.
International models highlight several lessons for Türkiye:
Integration of policy and technology: Market-based instruments like ETS should be complemented by CCS technologies.
Regional cooperation: Joint storage infrastructure with neighboring countries may create synergies.
Digital transparency: Adopting digital systems, as seen in South Korea, could enhance the credibility of the system.
Sectoral prioritization: Focusing on carbon-intensive industries in the first phase can deliver tangible short-term results.
Different CO₂ management models demonstrate that countries are developing approaches tailored to their circumstances, while pursuing the common goal of reducing emissions. Market-based mechanisms in Europe, storage solutions in Norway, large-scale ETS in Asia, and technology investments in the U.S. reflect the diversity of strategies.
Türkiye’s new climate policies aim to benefit from these experiences to achieve national targets and contribute to the global fight against climate change. The success of Türkiye’s climate policies will be strengthened by drawing on international lessons and may reinforce the country’s regional role.
European Commission – Official EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS): https://climate.ec.europa.eu/eu-action/eu-emissions-trading-system-eu-ets_en
Norway – Northern Lights Project (CO₂ storage): https://norlights.com