US-based Forbes magazine examined Turkey's Deposit Return System for Packaging (DOA). The analysis published in the magazine revealed that this model developed by Turkey could serve as an example for US policies aiming to strengthen recycling infrastructure and critical raw material security.
The analysis highlighted that the system, managed by the Turkish Environment Agency (TÜÇA), relies on private capital and extended producer responsibility without burdening the public budget. It noted that this approach enables implementation without additional costs to taxpayers.
Among the system's strongest features are its barcode-based digital infrastructure, end-to-end tracking mechanism, deposit return machines, and technology that allows citizens to transfer their returns to mobile wallets. This structure facilitates public participation, increases collection efficiency, and ensures used packaging is reintegrated into the economy.
According to Forbes' assessment, the system is not just an environmental initiative but also provides a modern industrial infrastructure that strengthens domestic supply chains. Forbes noted that the US could strengthen its policies by establishing a deposit return system similar to the 'Turkey model'.
TÜÇA President Nurullah Öztürk said that Turkey has created a model that is not dependent on a single equipment supplier and is open to competition. Öztürk explained that in the last two years, various Turkish companies have completed certification processes and started producing domestic deposit return machines, and these manufacturers are also targeting export markets.
Öztürk stated that the emerging industrial ecosystem will contribute to Turkey's value-added production, and that keeping valuable raw materials within the national economy will help reduce the current account deficit. The TÜÇA President added that if the Deposit Return System for Packaging becomes fully operational, it is expected to contribute approximately $1 billion annually to the Turkish economy.
