Highlights

Türkiye

Building Momentum for a Coal-Free Turkiye by 2030

Building on their momentum in transformative environmental campaigns, 350 Türkiye  continued to lead the charge towards a sustainable future for Türkiye  through strategic advocacy and grassroots mobilization. In a series of impactful actions, they tackled various challenges posed by coal mining and advocated for cleaner energy alternatives.

• The launch of the Coal Phase-Out by 2030 campaign saw 17 grassroots organizations unite under a common goal: urging Türkiye to declare a coal phase-out policy by 2030. Coordinated by 350 Türkiye, the Initiative Against Fossil Fuels coalition amplified the urgency of transitioning away from coal. With careful coordination and strategic planning, the campaign successfully garnered national attention, putting pressure on decision-makers to prioritize solutions.
• 350 Türkiye  rallied against a new mining regulation threatening precious olive groves. Collaborating with local and national organizations, they launched the “Olive is Life” petition,uniting public support to protect these vital ecosystems. Through advocacy efforts and community engagement, the organization successfully influenced policy decisions, leading to the withdrawal of the detrimental mining regulation.
• In Avdan, where villagers faced imminent threats from coal mine expansion, 350 Türkiye stood in solidarity with the affected communities. Partnering with the Avdan Platform, they amplified the villagers’ voices, advocating for their right to livelihood and environmental preservation. As a result, urgent expropriation plans were suspended by the court, marking a significant triumph for local communities and environmental justice.
• 350 Türkiye continues supporting communities opposing coal expansion. Collaborating with İkizköy villagers, CAN – Europe, and the Milas City Council, working together launched the Milas Beyond Coal report and website, offering a just transition roadmap away from coal. The report highlights local alternatives like olive oil production and renewable energy to mitigate job loss. When a coal mining company began cutting down trees in Akbelen Forest, endangering İkizköy village, 350 Turkiye initiated the “Don’t Touch Akbelen ” petition, gaining over 30,000 supporters in a month. Despite challenges, İkizköy  villagers persist in their fight against coal, supported by 350 Türkiye.

350 Türkiye’s unwavering dedication and collaborative spirit yielded tangible victories, demonstrating the power of grassroots movements in driving positive change. Through collective action and advocacy, they continue to pave the way towards a coal-free and sustainable future for Türkiye.

Coal Divestment: A Triumph for Climate Activism

Türkiye is witnessing a pivotal moment in its financial sector as multiple banks yield to increasing pressure and commit to divesting from coal, marking a significant victory for climate activism. In 2023 QNB Finansbank, The Turkish Economy Bank and Şekerbank committed to stop funding coal investments, highlighting the growing influence of environmental advocacy in shaping financial decisions.

Through the release of comprehensive bank reports and by the creation of public awareness, activists from 350 Türkiye and our partners persuaded the banks to prioritize sustainable investments and distance themselves from fossil fuels. Similarly, after 350 staff attended several Annual General Meetings (AGMs) to advocate for environmentally responsible banking practices. Şekerbank announced in July 2023 that it would stop investing in coal projects, highlighting the effectiveness of activist shareholder engagement. As Türkiye’s banks increasingly shift away from coal and adopt renewable energy sources, the pace towards a more sustainable future gains speed.