Zero waste perception within the circular economy framework: The case of Rize

The multitude of societal needs alongside the limited availability of resources used in production has highlighted the significance of waste management. In response to this, the concept of waste management has gained importance. The Zero Waste Project, initiated in 2017, aims to prevent waste generation, reduce it, promote the reuse of products, and ensure that waste, when generated, is separated at its source for recycling. The project ultimately aims to prevent waste and contribute to a more sustainable world. Spearheaded by Turkey, the effective implementation of this project globally will lead to leaving a more habitable world for future generations. The data collected from 444 participants residing in the province of Rize to assess their perceptions regarding the Zero Waste Project, environmental pollution, individual waste management, and the adequacy of public services were analyzed using the SPSS statistical program. The analysis revealed that, concerning individual waste management, which involves the separation and transformation of waste, women are more sensitive and knowledgeable about the Zero Waste Project compared to men. Additionally, married individuals have higher perceptions of waste management compared to singles. Furthermore, individuals with master's and bachelor's degrees have higher perceptions regarding environmental pollution, the Zero Waste Project, and the adequacy of public services compared to those with high school or lower education. Moreover, it was found that individuals in other professions (such as students, civil servants, engineers etc.) are more informed about the Zero Waste Project compared to entrepreneurs/employers. 22.5% of the survey participants didn't engage in waste separation as part of the Zero Waste Project. Furthermore, in response to a question about the color of the equipment used for placing waste according to the type of material, 61.7% provided incorrect answers.