By H.E. Mr. Selçuk Ünal, Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to the Kingdom of the Netherlands
The world has witnessed dramatic political, social, economic and environmental challenges over the last decades. In face of the escalating and evolving challenges, sustainability has become a priority for many countries. Against this backdrop, Türkiye strives to balance economic growth with sustainability and contributes to global efforts to overcome these challenges.
Green transition is one of priorities of Türkiye and one of the most important pillars of green transition in combating climate change. As a country located in the vulnerable Mediterranean region, Türkiye is aware of its part to contribute to the regional and global efforts to combat climate crisis.
With this perspective Türkiye has developed and initiated a set of national plans and strategies. For example, through its Long-term Low-emission Development Strategy, Türkiye has set the Net Zero Emission target for 2053 and doubled the greenhouse gasses emission reduction target in its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC).
Energy is the key sector to curb emissions. With this understanding, Türkiye has been increasingly investing in renewable and clean energy production capabilities in recent years. Today we are the 5th in Europe and 11th in the world in renewable energy installed capacity with 58%. 2035 and 2053 targets for the share of renewables is 65% and 69% respectively. As an important part of our green transition agenda, we have also announced our Hydrogen Technologies Strategy and Roadmap. Other noteworthy national measures include creation of sustainable, energy efficient and climate resilient cities in accordance with the National Smart Cities Strategy and Action Plan.
Decarbonization in industrial activities and transportation, and reduction of water loss in household consumption, industry and agriculture also constitute integral parts of Türhiye’s sustainability goals.
Furthermore, Türkiye’s successful Zero Waste Project, initiated by our First Lady H.E. Emine Erdoğan, has up to now yielded significant savings in terms of trees, energy and water as well as the prevention of greenhouse gas emissions. The Zero Waste Project has gained international recognition through the UN Resolution adopted during the UNGA-77 for promoting waste reduction and circular economy practices. The Zero Waste initiative has also been a platform for engaging all sectors including corporations, municipalities, local stake holders and international organizations. As such, the project is an example of how inclusive participation can lead to successful outcomes.
Türkiye firmly believes that technological innovation, green finance and partnerships with both the private sector and civil society will undoubtedly contribute to achieve sustainability goals.
Adverse effects of climate change and reaching a workable-level of sustainability for future goals, the role of effective multilateralism and diplomacy in facilitating global collaboration are essential. Sustainable environmental policies and more importantly their effective implementation demand a multifaceted diplomatic approach. Although environmental policies are mainly of a technical nature, they also have political and other dimensions. Diplomatic efforts can forge partnerships, bridging divides and finding common ground to address our common challenges. Cognizant of this, Türkiye actively engages with international organizations such as the UN, the G20 and the OECD advocating for inclusive environmental policies that address the unique challenges of developing countries. Furthermore, Türkiye’s engagement with the European Green Deal and its efforts to align domestic policies with EU sustainability frameworks, enabling cross-border collaboration and creating opportunities for joint ventures in renewable energy.
The international community’s efforts in combating climate change will reach a new phase at the upcoming COP29 in Baku. This Conference will be critical for climate finance. The New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) on the agenda will be the most significant milestone in climate finance. The new target should meet the needs of developing countries, include “new and additional” financial instruments based on scientific data, and not impose additional burdens on countries. Strengthening the role of multilateral development banks in climate finance, setting an ambitious target, creating resources proportional to the climate needs of countries, ensuring these resources are provided by developed countries, and facilitating access to these resources for developing countries will be Türkiye’s priorities at COP29.
We live in a fragile world. Environmental problems affect each and every one of us. Challenges such as global warming, rising sea levels, desertification, forest fires, food and water insecurity are all interconnected. Diplomacy can find a common ground, identify areas of mutual interest and craft innovative solutions that address the diverse needs and priorities of nations in their course towards sustainable development. Ultimately, the success of diplomatic efforts in advancing climate negotiations is based on the ability to build trust and foster cooperation among nations.
The Netherlands is a significant actor in climate diplomacy. With its ambitious renewable energy and transition program as well as the promising green hydrogen aspect makes the Netherlands a reliable partner. The positive course of Turkish-Dutch relations and both countries’ strong attachment to effective multilateralism will prove to be beneficial for all concerned also during the COP29.
