DOA System Expected to Reduce Beverage Packaging Imports by 35-40%

Turkey's Environment Agency (TÜÇA) Chairman Nurullah Öztürk announced that the country's Deposit-Return System (DOA) aims for a 35-40% reduction in beverage packaging imports upon full capacity. The system targets a reduction of 37,000 tons in greenhouse gas emissions, 1.3 billion kilowatt-hours of energy savings, and the prevention of 3.6 million barrels of oil consumption. Financing for the system is provided by deposit participation fees paid by manufacturers. The system will enhance the competitiveness of the industry by producing high-quality recycled materials, providing an advantage to Turkish exporters. With 482 accredited beverage manufacturers and 3,673 registered packaged beverages, the system plans to reach 10,000 manual return points by 2026 and 30,000 by 2027. Over 2 million users have registered for the mobile app, with 20 million packages returned in the first 10 days. The system aims to install 20,000 deposit return machines nationwide as it matures.

The DOA System, which will significantly contribute to Turkey's circular economy and sustainable development goals, is also expected to eliminate approximately $1 of imported raw material needs for every 20 beverage packages recovered. Upon full capacity, the system aims to contribute at least $600 million annually to the current account.