Elmalı Municipality is actively engaged in various initiatives concerning climate change and zero waste.
Past and Current Status
- Zero Waste Project: Since 2017, the municipality has been working on the "Zero Waste Project." This project includes educational and awareness-raising activities for students and the public on zero waste principles.
- Climate Change and Environmental Transformation: Under the umbrella of Antalya Metropolitan Municipality, to which Elmalı Municipality is affiliated, the "Climate Change and Clean Energy Branch Directorate" was established in 2020, followed by the "Climate Change and Zero Waste Department" in 2022. These units coordinate local efforts in combating climate change and managing zero waste. Additionally, "Environmental Transformation Workshops" are organized in Antalya, addressing topics like climate change, waste management, and renewable energy.
- Water Management: The "Rainwater Harvesting Project" implemented in Elmalı helps combat drought and aims to efficiently use water resources by reducing groundwater consumption. This project is a crucial part of climate change adaptation efforts.
Goals and Vision
Elmalı Municipality's goals and vision for climate change and zero waste generally align with the strategic plans and environmental transformation objectives of Antalya Metropolitan Municipality:
- Waste Management:
- Design products and processes to prevent waste generation during production, use, and subsequent stages.
- Develop and implement strategies to keep products and materials in the economy, ensuring they create value.
- Minimize the amount of solid waste sent to landfills and improve wastewater recycling.
- Expand the use of recycling bins and ensure the regular collection of recyclable waste.
- Conduct educational activities to increase public awareness of zero waste.
- Combating and Adapting to Climate Change:
- Restore and improve natural ecosystems.
- Prioritize the use of renewable energy.
- Integrate circular principles into urban services and organize urban infrastructure to support circularity (e.g., increasing electric vehicle charging stations).
- Raise awareness about environmental issues and climate change.
- Create and implement strategic and action plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Support resilient agricultural and tourism practices against the adverse effects of climate change.
Elmalı Municipality continues its efforts towards a more livable and sustainable environment by encouraging local community participation and collaborating with stakeholders, in line with these goals.