Baku: Trkiye plans to increase the share of renewable energy to 50% and nuclear energy to 30% of primary energy by 2053, the country’s environment, urbanization and climate change minister said on Wednesday. Murat Kurum explained his country’s 2053 Net Zero Emissions target on the sidelines of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan.
According to Anadolu Agency, Kurum emphasized that Trkiye has already raised its renewable energy capacity to 59%, ranking fifth in Europe and 11th worldwide. He noted that Ankara sets ambitious targets for the energy sector, which accounts for the majority of emissions, with 72% of Trkiye’s emissions coming from energy, 13% from agriculture, and 3% from waste. Trkiye also aims to drastically reduce emissions in the industrial sector by 2053, targeting a 93% reduction in cement, 99% in iron and steel, and 75% in aluminum.
The minister stated that the building sector aims for near-zero emissions by 2053, potentially preventing 2 billion tons of CO2-equivalen
t emissions. Kurum also highlighted the significance of climate finance, calling COP29 a turning point in securing financial resources for climate action. He cited World Meteorological Organization data indicating that climate-related disasters over the last 50 years resulted in over two million deaths and $4.5 trillion in economic losses.
Trkiye’s strategy includes expanding its high-speed rail network to 7,000 kilometers by 2053 and increasing the localization of electric vehicles to 75% by 2035. Additionally, the country plans to phase out landfill disposal, increase recycling rates to 70%, and implement a Deposit Management System by 2025 to curb methane emissions.
In agriculture, Trkiye will expand organic farming to 10% of farmland, optimize livestock feed, and prioritize food security. Forestry efforts will focus on increasing carbon sink capacity through conservation and green spaces. Kurum outlined plans to improve agricultural irrigation efficiency, reduce urban water losses, and implement smart w
ater management.
The long-term strategy includes supporting hydrogen, carbon capture, and smart city technologies, aiming for a fair transition with new jobs and skills. Kurum anticipated the passing of Trkiye’s Climate Law this year, aligning with the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism in 2026.
Kurum also expressed Trkiye’s candidacy for the COP31 presidency, highlighting the country’s potential to turn climate challenges into opportunities and support climate justice, technology transfer, and financial resources for all nations. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced Ankara’s candidacy, with Trkiye pledging to adopt a fair, sustainable, inclusive, and transparent approach in global climate action.