Gökçeada (Imbros) Takes a Big Step Toward a Plastic-Free Life

As the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change prepares to ban single-use plastics, the Gökçeada Municipality has taken a step ahead by drafting its own "Single-Use Plastics Action Plan." Through training and workshop programs organized under the project, the foundations of a roadmap to protect the island's ecosystem have been laid.

The GÖKÇEADA IMPACT project, launched in April 2025, has gained strategic importance with the new regulation draft published by the ministry. While items such as straws, stirrers, plates, and foam containers are on the list for a potential ban, Gökçeada aims to ensure that local businesses and residents adapt to the process before these legal regulations take effect.

Two-Day Workshop: Public Sector, Businesses, and Students Together

The two-day program at Değirmentepe Facilities saw strong participation from public institutions, academics, local businesses, and students. Kicking off with opening speeches by Gökçeada Mayor Bülent Ecevit Atalay and District Director of National Education Zafer Tepeli, the events included awareness training for students and information sessions for business representatives on EU directives and alternative solutions.

On the second day, survey results were shared to assess plastic usage habits on the island. During workshops, island-specific solution proposals were developed, and the action plan was finalized.

The municipality aims to prepare local businesses and tourism operators for this process before the bans become official. Once the action plan is completed, businesses in Gökçeada are expected to lead the way in sustainable tourism across Turkey.