Examination of Isparta organized industrial zone in terms of sustainability and development of a model proposal for a green organized industrial zone

This thesis study was conducted with a focus on the Isparta Süleyman Demirel Organized Industrial Zone (ISDOSB), stemming from the necessity of addressing Turkey's organized industrial zones (OIZs) from a sustainability perspective. The main objective of the study is to analyze the current environmental management practices of ISDOSB, evaluate the applicability of zero-waste policies within the framework of sustainable development principles, reveal industrial symbiosis opportunities, and ultimately develop an exemplary green OIZ model for the region. The research was structured into four main work packages (WPs). First, within the scope of the first WP, the sectoral structure and environmental performance data of the facilities were analyzed, and specific resource consumption values per unit product were compared with the specific values in the Best Available Techniques Reference (BREF) documents. Next, in the second WP, industrial symbiosis potential was determined by examining the waste and byproduct streams throughout the OIZ. In the third WP, financial, corporate, and regulatory barriers to the green transformation were evaluated through interviews and surveys conducted with facility managers. Finally, in the fourth WP, a feasible Green OIZ model proposal was presented for ISDOSB, based on all these findings. According to the research findings, it was determined that the energy and water consumption values of the facilities, particularly in the marble and textile sectors, were close to the upper limits of the BREF reference values, indicating a significant potential for environmental improvement. Although an industrial symbiosis potential of 9% was identified throughout the OIZ, it was observed that this potential has not yet been adequately utilized. It was concluded that the biggest barriers to the green transformation are high investment costs and the inadequacy of existing incentives, as stated by facility managers. The economic analyses conducted reveal that 68% of facility managers find the investment costs too high, while 74% consider the incentives insufficient. Furthermore, it was determined that ISDOSB's current situation does not fully comply with fundamental Green OIZ criteria such as corporate governance, planning processes, and performance reporting. These findings demonstrate that the green transformation of the OIZ should not be limited to facility-based technical improvements but also requires a holistic strategy to overcome corporate and financial barriers. The model developed in light of these results aims to provide a guiding framework for ISDOSB to achieve its sustainability goals and enhance the region's economic competitiveness.