The Zero Waste Blue Movement, initiated by Turkey's Ministry of Environment, has achieved a remarkable milestone by collecting 245,000 tons of marine litter over five years. Launched on June 10, 2019, under the patronage of Emine Erdoğan, the movement aims to combat marine pollution across 28 coastal provinces.
Through the implementation of the 'First 5-Year Provincial Action Plans,' the initiative has successfully removed 20,000 tons of marine garbage, equivalent to 500 truckloads, from the seas. The plans focus on preventing litter at its source while also cleaning coastal areas, the sea surface, and seabeds.
In addition to cleanup efforts, the movement emphasizes education and awareness campaigns to inform the public about the impacts of marine litter, which includes harmful substances like plastics and fishing nets. As of January 2025, the 'Second 5-Year Marine Garbage Provincial Action Plans' have commenced, promising a more extensive approach to tackling marine pollution.