Türkiye and the Paris Climate Agreement

Paris The Paris Climate Agreement is a global accord adopted on 12 December 2015 at the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21) in Paris and signed by 195 countries. This agreement aims to mobilize all nations to combat climate change by limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels and preventing it from exceeding 2°C. Türkiye was among the countries that accepted the agreement at the end of 2015, and its provisions have begun to directly influence Türkiye’s climate policies and economic structure.

Türkiye’s Approach to the Paris Climate Agreement

Türkiye’s accession process to the Paris Climate Agreement has been shaped by various challenges, during which Türkiye has emphasized the recognition of its status as a developing country. In particular, Türkiye has adopted a more flexible approach, seeking to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while continuing economic growth, rather than taking on the heavy emission reduction commitments expected of developed countries like.

Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) and Türkiye’s Commitments

Under the framework of the Paris Climate Agreement, each country is required to make commitments at the national level to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Prior to COP21, Türkiye submitted its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 21% by 2030 compared to a “Business As Usual” (BAU) scenario based on current situation trends. This represents a key commitment in setting Türkiye’s national goals, designed to align with the country’s growth objectives while maintaining environmental responsibility.

However, Türkiye seeks climate finance and technological support from developed countries to fulfill these commitments. In this context, key priorities include increasing investment in renewable energy sources, promoting energy efficiency in industry and transportation, and expanding access to clean energy technologies. Türkiye’s commitments reflect an approach that seeks to balance economic development with environmental sustainability.

Financial Support and Climate Adaptation

The Paris Agreement anticipates that developed countries will provide financial support to developing nations to combat climate change and facilitate adaptation. In this regard, Türkiye has demonstrated a clear attitude to access climate finance, targeting international funding mechanisms such as the Green Climate Fund (Green Climate Fund). Türkiye’s success in addressing climate change will depend not only on domestic resources but also on the availability of international support.

Climate adaptation has become a critical agenda item for Türkiye. The country is working to develop adaptation strategies in key sectors such as agriculture, energy production, and coastal areas to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change.

Sectoral Transformation and Renewable Energy

To achieve the global goals of the Paris Agreement, Türkiye must undergo a fundamental transformation in its energy production. Currently, Türkiye meets a large share of its energy demand with fossil fuels, which constitutes a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, increasing the use of renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and transitioning to low-carbon energy systems are among the most critical elements of the Paris Agreement for Türkiye.

In recent years, Türkiye has taken significant steps toward developing renewable energy sources. Particularly, sun and wind energy projects have rapidly expanded, and Türkiye has set a target to increase the share of renewable energy in its energy production by 2030. Achieving these goals will not only reduce emissions but also decrease the country’s dependence on energy imports.

Türkiye’s Role in Combating Climate Change

Under the framework of the Paris Agreement, Türkiye is compelled to make significant changes in its domestic and foreign policies to contribute effectively to the global fight against climate change. This is a process that requires not only reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also promoting economic growth in an environmentally friendly manner. Türkiye’s ability to manage this transition successfully depends on the commitment of the government and the private sector to invest in green technologies and low-carbon projects.

Moreover, Türkiye’s success in addressing climate change will not be determined solely by state actions but also by public awareness and the active participation of all segments of society. In this context, educating the public on climate change, promoting green practices, and increasing private sector investment in sustainability are essential.