Türkiye introduces first climate law targeting net zero emissions by 2053

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🗞️ Driving the news: Türkiye is set to adopt its first-ever climate law, establishing a legal framework to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2053
• The draft legislation outlines emission targets, regulatory structures, and enforcement mechanisms
• It will be debated in Parliament following the national holiday and marks a major step in aligning the country’s climate policy with international standards

🔭 The context: Following its ratification of the Paris Agreement in 2021, Türkiye committed to achieving net zero emissions by mid-century
• Until now, this target lacked a dedicated legal foundation
• The new law will formalize Türkiye’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), mandate climate governance structures at the provincial level, and create a Green Taxonomy for sustainable investment classification
• It also introduces core regulatory instruments such as a national Emissions Trading System (ETS) and a Border Carbon Adjustment Mechanism.

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: This legislation positions Türkiye as a serious actor in the global climate transition, particularly as it is one of the G20’s last countries to establish a standalone climate law
• With its diverse geography and high exposure to climate-related risks, Türkiye's move enhances regional resilience efforts and could influence policy in other emerging economies
• Key to success will be enforcement, particularly the effectiveness of the new Carbon Market Board and emissions permit systems

⏭️ What's next: The law is expected to pass later in 2025, triggering a three-year timeline for companies under the ETS to secure emission permits
• Implementation will be monitored by the Climate Change Presidency, which will also publish thematic climate reports
• As the EU ramps up its Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, Türkiye’s new framework may also support export alignment and trade resilience

💬 One quote: “Net zero does not mean there will be no carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere at all... It is about ensuring the amount of greenhouse gases released is offset by natural or technological sinks.” – Prof. Dr. Halil Hasar, Director, Climate Change Presidency

📈 One stat: Non-compliant businesses could face fines of up to ₺10 million (approx. $263,000) for failing to submit or verify annual emissions reports under the proposed law

See on illuminem's Data Hub™ the sustainability performance of Turquoise Coast Environment Fund and its peers: Mission Climate Initiative and Enactus

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