Hundreds of Thousands of Tons of Plastic Waste Shipped from the European Union to Turkey
According to a European Commission report, 510 thousand tons of plastic waste were exported from the EU to Turkey in 2025, placing Turkey first among OECD countries.
According to the European Commission's latest assessment, 510 thousand tons of plastic waste were sent from the European Union to Turkey in 2025, with Turkey ranking at the top among OECD countries with this volume.
Data in the European Commission Report
According to European Commission data, the EU exported a total of 1.4 million tons of plastic waste beyond its borders in 2025. While 510 thousand tons of this amount were sent to Turkey, Turkey became the destination for 70 percent of the plastic waste sent by the EU to OECD countries.
Turkey's Waste Management and Legislation
The European Commission stated that Turkey has strengthened its legislation regarding plastic waste management and imports, increased inspections, and imposed higher fines. However, the report also noted that there are areas that need improvement.
Water Resources and Pollution in Adana
An investigation published by The Guardian in August focused on the impacts of plastic waste sent to Turkey, particularly in Adana. The investigation included findings regarding microplastic pollution in water sources around the areas where plastic waste sent from Britain is processed.
EU's New Rules and Measures
As the EU tightens rules on sending plastic waste outside the union, it began implementing a prior notification and consent procedure for all plastic waste exports to countries outside the EU starting May 21, 2026.