Climate Bill: Türkiye’s Net Zero Journey and Transition to Green Economy

Türkiye’s Climate Law Draft provides a comprehensive legal framework prepared to combat the climate crisis and build a sustainable future. The draft aims to achieve the “net zero emissions” target by 2053 and increase social resilience against the effects of climate change. Here are the main elements and details of this regulation:

Long-Term Goals and Strategies

The 2053 net zero emissions commitment is at the heart of the draft. Transformation plans will be prepared in carbon-intensive sectors (energy, industry, transportation) to achieve this target. For example, it is envisaged to reduce the share of coal and fossil fuels in energy production, encourage renewable energy investments, and expand energy efficiency projects. For 2030, it is aimed to control emissions with a “reduction from increase” scenario. However, the fact that concrete steps (such as the closing date of coal power plants) have not yet been clarified to achieve these targets is the focus of criticism.

Renewable Energy and Clean Transformation

The transition to renewable energy sources is one of the most critical pillars of the draft. Incentives for the installation of solar, wind and geothermal power plants will be increased, and licensing processes will be facilitated. In addition, although a direct date for the phase-out from coal is not specified, an emissions trading system (ETS) is planned to be implemented with the principle of “polluter pays”. With this system, high-emission companies will be required to limit their carbon emissions or purchase carbon credits from the market. Thus, the transition to clean technologies will be economically encouraged.

Carbon Economy and Financing

The bill aims to strengthen carbon pricing mechanisms. The Emissions Trading System (ETS) will cover large-scale companies, especially energy and heavy industry. The carbon tax will be applied to imported products and high-emission domestically produced goods, aiming to both internalize environmental costs and generate income. Some of the resources obtained will be transferred to climate-friendly projects and green technology R&D studies. In addition, the transformation of the private sector will be supported with financial instruments such as green bonds and climate funds.

Climate Adaptation and Social Resilience

Measures will be taken in agriculture, water management and urban infrastructure to minimize the effects of climate change. For example, development of drought-resistant agricultural products, reduction of water losses and green infrastructure projects against flood risk in cities will be implemented. Protection of ecosystems with nature-based solutions such as afforestation and pasture restoration is also an important part of the bill. In this context, it is expected that projects such as planting 7 billion saplings by 2030 will be put on a legal basis.

Institutional Structure and Cooperation

A new institution called the Climate Change Presidency will be established with the bill. This unit will coordinate climate policies and follow up on national and international commitments. In addition, a Climate Council will be convened with the participation of scientists, NGOs, local governments and private sector representatives. The Council will develop policy recommendations and provide scientific guidance to decision-making processes. On the other hand, the lack of clear regulations regarding the role of municipalities in the bill raises questions about how applications will be carried out at the local level.

Transparency and Audit Mechanisms

Annual emission reporting will be made mandatory for large-scale companies. These reports will be checked by independent auditing firms and shared with the public. In addition, anti-corruption and budget monitoring systems will be established for the effective use of climate finance. It is aimed to attract international investors to Türkiye with tools such as green bond issuances.

Criticism and Deficiencies

The bill is considered “insufficient” by some circles. In particular, the uncertainty of the coal phase-out date, the lack of support for the 2030 targets with concrete steps and the slow progress of the legislation for compliance with the EU Green Deal are criticized. For example, concerns are expressed that Türkiye may be unprepared for regulations such as the border carbon tax (CBAM) of the European Union. In addition, it is emphasized that the bill does not take into account social inequalities and that social support mechanisms for those experiencing energy poverty are lacking.

Conclusion

Although the Turkish Climate Law Bill is an important step in the fight against the climate crisis, uncertainties continue regarding the implementation details and how financial resources will be provided. A more comprehensive and participatory approach is needed to draw a roadmap in line with the Paris Agreement and the European Green Deal. In the upcoming period, the bill is expected to be revised in light of scientific data and stakeholder views while being discussed in parliament.