Environmental policies of political parties in Turkey: Programs, implementation, and public perception

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the environmental policies of political parties in Turkey, focusing on their programs, practical implementations, and public reflections. It explores how environmental issues have entered the political agenda, how the concept of sustainability has evolved within party ideologies, and the main challenges encountered in policy implementation. The research employs document analysis and comparative analysis methods, along with data derived from public opinion surveys. Findings reveal that environmental policies began to appear in party programs particularly after the 1980s, influenced by global environmental movements, and gained further significance in the 2000s with the European Union accession process. However, economic priorities, political instability, and institutional shortcomings remain major obstacles to the effective execution of these policies. Although public awareness regarding environmental issues is increasing, the study concludes that more education and awareness-raising activities are required to transform this sensitivity into concrete action. The research emphasizes that environmental policies should be addressed as a standalone and prioritized policy field, independent of development agendas. It also highlights the importance of fostering a shared environmental vision among political parties, strengthening local governments, and enhancing international cooperation to achieve Turkey's environmental sustainability goals.