Environmental Agency set up in Turkey

By Ayse Sensoy Boztepe

ANKARA (AA) - Turkish government on Wednesday set up an Environmental Agency, which will operate under the Environment and Urbanization Ministry.

The agency aims at improving environment and carrying out zero waste project, launched by the ministry to collect and dispose of wastes effectively.

The agency will establish and operate waste management system, ensuring the involvement of relevant departments and streamlining their working in line with the environmental strategies and policies formulated by the ministry.

It will also implement the necessary administrative regulations and measures, including the permission and approval procedures for the establishment, application and monitoring of the waste management system.

The agency will carry out activities to improve the environment and contribute to the establishment of zero waste management system. It will also facilitate activities aimed at using recyclable waste products to boost the country's economy.

In order to raise awareness and sensitivity among public, the agency will prepare and publish visual, audio and written material in collaboration with press and broadcasting organizations, and organize campaigns, contests, and promotional activities.

The agency will also carry out activities such as organizing training and certificate programs, conducting scientific studies, and establishing documentation, research and application centers as well as laboratories and museums.

It will cooperate with local administrations within the country and abroad, national and international organization, universities and non-governmental organizations.

The agency will also develop and execute joint projects and provide financial support to municipalities, provincial administrations, educational institutions and other organizations.

* Writing by Dilan Pamuk in Ankara