During Zero Waste Week in Istanbul, the 2nd Global Zero Waste Forum, organized by the Zero Waste Foundation, started on Friday, bringing together representatives from 183 countries, more than 120 ministers and nearly 7,000 participants to discuss climate action, sustainability and resource efficiency.
Held under the theme "The Road to Antalya: Zero Waste as Climate Action," the three-day event is serving as a platform for global leaders, policymakers and experts to advance international cooperation ahead of COP31 in Antalya.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, first lady Emine Erdoğan, honorary president of the Zero Waste Foundation and chair of the United Nations High-Level Advisory Board on Zero Waste, described the forum as a historic gathering that reflects a shared commitment to protecting the planet and future generations.
"The world is facing the devastating consequences of the climate crisis more intensely with each passing day," Erdoğan said, warning that environmental degradation, pollution and unsustainable consumption patterns are placing growing pressure on natural resources and ecosystems.
She argued that the industrial age's consumption-driven model has not only accelerated the depletion of resources but also weakened humanity's relationship with nature.
