New York:Trkiye's first lady, Emine Erdogan, who is also the chair of the UN Advisory Board of Eminent Persons on Zero Waste, addressed the global environmental crisis in a video message to the Sustainable Development Impact Meetings organized by the World Economic Forum.

According to Anadolu Agency, Emine Erdogan highlighted the severe impact of current production and consumption systems on the planet, noting that cities are overwhelmed by waste and oceans are struggling. She stressed the necessity of transitioning to a circular economy, which involves strengthening sustainable development, expanding recycling, improving waste management, and shifting to renewable energy sources.

Erdogan emphasized that zero waste is not just a waste-management approach but involves redesigning production and consumption models and redefining the relationship with nature. She called for an economic transformation that supports zero waste in daily life and encourages the production of durable, repairable, and reusable products.

Erdogan expressed optimism about combating the climate crisis, citing the Zero Waste initiative launched in Trkiye in 2017, which has grown into a global movement. She underscored the importance of collaborative efforts to create a sustainable future, focusing on resource protection and value creation.

In conclusion, Emine Erdogan thanked the World Economic Forum for hosting the meeting and expressed her hope to meet participants at COP31 in Antalya.