Electronic Waste Recycling in Türkiye: Opportunities and Developments in 2024–2025
Türkiye’s electronic waste (e-waste) recycling sector is undergoing a major transformation during the 2024–2025 period, offering significant opportunities for international entrepreneurs. The industry is both addressing long-standing structural challenges and benefiting from new policy initiatives focused on circular economy and sustainability.
Current Status and Market Size
In 2024, Türkiye produced around 1 million tons of electronic waste, of which only 62,000 tons were collected — equal to a 6.2% collection rate. This figure remains far below the European Union’s 65% benchmark, signaling substantial growth potential in the sector. The per capita amount of electronic waste reached 10 kilograms, above the global average.
Records from licensed recycling companies indicate an increase in digital waste generation: while 847,000 tons were recorded in the early 2020s, the number climbed to 1 million tons by 2024. In comparison, only 52,129 tons were collected in 2021 and 67,153 tons in 2020 — figures that highlight an expanding but still underdeveloped recycling system.
National Goals and Regulations
Türkiye’s official target for 2025 is to achieve a 40% collection rate for WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment), rising to 65% by 2030. The country is supporting the implementation of a circular economy model across the electronics industry, with the aim of increasing overall recycling rates from 20% to 80%.
Within the scope of the 2024–2028 Digital Transformation Strategy, environmental sustainability plays a central role. Technology-driven solutions for electronic waste management are being promoted, creating a more data-based and traceable system.
Sectoral Developments and Innovations
Deposit Management System
In 2025, the Deposit Management System will be launched in 30,000 locations through a collaboration involving the Zero Waste initiative, Turkish Mint, and the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change. Consumers will receive between 0.25 and 0.50 kurus in refunds for returned containers. This model is also being extended to schools and places of worship, allowing companies to integrate it into corporate social responsibility projects.
Zero Waste Certification
The number of companies receiving a Zero Waste certificate continues to grow in 2025. This certification helps firms demonstrate their commitment to sustainability while improving competitiveness and brand reputation.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
The Extended Producer Responsibility model has gained renewed focus in 2024–2025. This approach requires manufacturers to assume responsibility for the recycling of their products at the end of their lifecycle, encouraging sustainable design and material recovery.
Market Dynamics and Investment Opportunities
Rising Demand and Material Value
In 2025, materials such as paper, packaging, and plastics used in recycling have become more valuable. Increasing quotas for plastics, electronics, and textiles have also boosted activity across the industry. The plastic recycling sector, in particular, is evolving with advanced granule technologies and an expanding range of applications. Many producers using recycled inputs are investing in machinery, R&D, and innovation to strengthen their market positions.
Sector Challenges
Despite growth, the industry continues to face obstacles such as high energy and rental costs and workforce shortages. At times, the price of recycled materials has even surpassed that of virgin materials, making cost efficiency a major strategic focus for companies.
Structural Challenges in E-Waste Management
- Public awareness about electronic waste sorting remains insufficient
- Collection points for WEEE are limited in rural areas
- Rapid technological change reduces product lifespans
Environmental and Health Impacts
Improper disposal of e-waste contributes to air pollution through toxic emissions. Incineration releases volatile organic compounds, heavy metals, and carcinogens, posing serious risks to both human health and the environment. The World Health Organization warns that exposure to these pollutants can lead to neurological, cardiovascular, and respiratory disorders.
Strategic Insights for Entrepreneurs
International investors considering entry into Türkiye’s electronic waste industry should focus on several strategic areas:
- technology and innovation: investing in advanced dismantling, separation, and recovery technologies can provide a competitive edge
- EU alignment: compliance with frameworks such as the European Green Deal will be increasingly important; since February 2025, manufacturers of electric vehicle batteries must declare their carbon footprints
- collection infrastructure: establishing new collection and take-back points represents an attractive investment opportunity
- circular economy models: examples such as Borusan Cat’s “B’DAHA” initiative demonstrate how refurbished machines and parts can successfully re-enter the production cycle
Conclusion
Türkiye’s electronic waste recycling sector is transitioning from a modest 6.2% collection rate toward ambitious targets of 40–65% by 2030. Ongoing policy reforms, technological advancements, and rising environmental awareness are transforming the national recycling landscape. For international entrepreneurs, this is the right moment to engage in a high-potential, sustainability-driven market that supports both profitability and global environmental goals.