British Press: Turkey’s DOA Deposit Return System is One of the World’s Most Advanced
The Times has highlighted Turkey’s DOA deposit return system as one of the most advanced deposit return systems in the world.
The London-based newspaper reported on Turkey’s approach to deposit management and recycling, including comments from Murat Kurum, Turkey’s Minister of Environment, Urbanisation and Climate Change and President of COP31.
A Model the UK Could Follow
According to The Times, Turkey’s Deposit Return System, known as DOA, uses QR codes, digital tracking infrastructure and reverse vending machines. The newspaper suggested that the system could provide an example for the United Kingdom.
Turkey’s model was also highlighted for its potential to keep valuable resources within the country and return strategic raw materials to the economy.
Capacity to Process 25 Billion Packages a Year
Under the DOA system, consumers can return recyclable packaging and receive their deposit payments through digital wallets.
The system is designed to have the capacity to process approximately 25 billion packages a year.
The economic and employment potential of the system was also highlighted. It is expected to contribute around 1 billion dollars towards reducing Turkey’s current account deficit and create approximately 20,000 jobs.
Higher Collection and Recycling Rates
Murat Kurum stressed the importance of deposit return systems in increasing recycling rates.
He said that such systems had produced higher collection and recycling rates wherever they had been introduced, adding that Turkey’s experience showed that a well-designed deposit return system could provide industry with high-quality recycled materials.
Turkey introduced the DOA system nationwide on 1 July, making it a significant part of the country’s approach to recycling, resource recovery and the circular economy.
The system is also expected to be presented internationally at COP31, which Turkey will host in Antalya in November 2026.
