The quantities of plastic waste have quadrupled in recent years, with Italy among the largest exporters

by Marco Arezio

In recent years, Turkey has become the primary destination for plastic waste from Europe, with a significant increase in exported quantities. This phenomenon raises environmental and health concerns, highlighting the need for more responsible global waste management.

The Rise in Plastic Waste Exports to Turkey

After China banned the import of plastic waste in 2018, many European countries sought new destinations for their scrap. Turkey emerged as one of the primary destinations, with an exponential rise in plastic waste imports. According to Eurostat data, in 2023 Turkey imported 457,000 tons of plastic waste from Europe, quadrupling the quantities compared to 2018.

Italy’s Role

Italy ranks fourth among European countries exporting plastic waste to Turkey. In 2023, Italy sent 41,580 tons of plastic waste to Turkey, equivalent to about 347 truckloads per month. This represents a significant increase compared to previous years, indicating a growing reliance on exports for managing plastic waste.

Environmental and Health Implications

The increase in plastic waste imports has led to severe environmental consequences in Turkey. Investigations by Greenpeace have revealed that much of this waste is not properly recycled, ending up in illegal landfills or being burned in the open, causing soil, air, and water pollution.

These practices put the health of local communities at risk, exposing them to toxic and carcinogenic substances.

Turkey’s Response

In response to this situation, in May 2021, the Turkish government announced a ban on the import of polyethylene waste, one of the most common plastics. However, following pressure from local industry, the ban was lifted after a few days, allowing imports to continue.

This decision drew criticism from environmental organizations, emphasizing the need for stricter policies to protect the environment and public health.

The Need for Responsible Waste Management

The current situation underscores the urgency of more sustainable plastic waste management in Europe. Relying on exports to countries like Turkey does not solve the problem but rather displaces it, with serious environmental and social consequences.

Reducing plastic production, improving recycling infrastructure, and promoting a circular economy are essential to effectively address the plastic waste crisis.

Conclusion

Turkey has become Europe’s dumping ground for plastic waste, with quantities quadrupling in recent years, partly due to Italian exports. This phenomenon entails serious environmental and health risks, underscoring the need for more responsible and sustainable plastic waste management globally.

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