10 Billion TL Transformation Financing from Zero Waste Foundation and VakıfBank
The Zero Waste Foundation and VakıfBank have signed a strategic financing protocol worth 10 billion TL to support the circular economy transformation.
With the strategic cooperation protocol signed between the Zero Waste Foundation and VakıfBank, a financing target of 10 billion TL has been set to support zero waste and circular economy transformation.
Scope and Objectives of the Protocol
The Zero Waste Foundation and VakıfBank signed a strategic cooperation protocol to support zero waste and circular economy transformation through financing.
Within the framework of this agreement, the project aims to reach a financing volume of 10 billion liras in the first stage.
Developments in Recovery Rates
VakıfBank General Manager Osman Arslan reminded that the Zero Waste Movement started in 2017.
Arslan stated that the recovery rate, which was 13 percent in 2017, exceeded 37.5 percent as of 2025.
It was stated that approximately 90 million tons of recyclable waste were brought into the economy by the end of 2025.
Future Recovery Targets
Following the success achieved in waste management, new rates have been determined for the upcoming period.
It is planned to increase this rate to 60 percent across Turkey by 2035.
By 2053, it is targeted to raise the recovery rate to 70 percent.
Circular Economy and Employment Contribution
Projections within the scope of the 2025-2028 National Circular Economy Strategy and Action Plan were shared.
The transition to the circular economy is expected to create between 210 and 350 billion liras of added value annually.
In addition, this transformation is projected to contribute to more than 100 thousand new jobs.
Resource Need and Company Support
Significant resources are required to renew production technologies and improve waste management.
Osman Arslan noted that in this context, 110 to 180 billion liras of resources are needed every year.
In the first stage, it is targeted to bring over 500 companies together with the circular economy transformation.
KGF Support for SMEs
Small and medium-sized enterprises were not forgotten during the transformation process.
Thanks to the 3 billion lira Credit Guarantee Fund (KGF) support, the transformation processes of SMEs are being facilitated.
Costs and Competitiveness of Businesses
Zero Waste Foundation President Samed Ağırbaş made evaluations on the subject.
Ağırbaş emphasized that zero waste investments lower the costs of businesses.
He noted that these investments increase the efficiency and competitiveness of companies.
Economic Transformation Model
The zero waste approach has not only an environmental but also an economic dimension.
Samed Ağırbaş stated that zero waste can be made into a strong economic transformation model.