The role of financial instruments in waste management: Turkey and selected country practices

The amount of waste is constantly increasing as a result of human activities; urbanization, industrialization, population growth, and changing consumption habits are accelerating this process. Waste that remains in nature for a long time without disappearing leads to environmental, economic, and social problems. When left uncontrolled, waste poses serious risks. Therefore, waste management is of great importance, and it is stated that legal regulations, financial tools, and informative policies should be implemented for effective waste management. An examination of academic studies reveals a limited number of studies addressing the financial instruments used in waste management. The aim of this study is to determine the effectiveness of financial instruments used in waste management in Turkey and selected countries: Denmark, Finland, Germany, Sweden, France, Norway, Hungary, and Slovakia. Accordingly, the financial instruments used in Turkey and the selected countries are examined, and feasible recommendations for Turkey are presented. The study employs a descriptive analysis, considering existing academic sources and reliable secondary data. The first section of the study presents the conceptual framework of waste and waste management. Following this, the financial instruments used in waste management in Turkey and the selected countries are discussed. Finally, the financial instruments in Turkey and the selected countries are compared, and conclusions and recommendations for Türkiye are presented. The study reveals that Turkey has taken various policy steps in the field of waste management in recent years. These steps include circular economy practices, zero-waste initiatives, tax regulations on plastic bag use, and a deposit return system. However, current waste management practices have not yet reached the desired level, and Turkey's recycling rates lag significantly behind those of selected countries. Accordingly, diversifying financial instruments, strengthening existing policies, and increasing public awareness are critical for a sustainable and effective waste management system.