Circular Economy, Solid Waste Recovery, and Growth: An Empirical Analysis for Sustainable Development in the 100th Anniversary of the Republic

Abstract

This article aims to examine the relationship between solid waste recycling and economic growth within the framework of the circular economy perspective in Turkiye. As Turkiye approaches its 100th anniversary of the Republic, achieving a sustainable and inclusive economic growth goal is of paramount importance. Solid waste recycling is now recognized as a process that not only reduces waste but also contributes positively to both economic growth and environmental preservation. In this context, the study utilizes quarterly data from 1994Q1 to 2020Q4 to comprehensively analyze the impact of solid waste recycling on the Turkish economy. The analyses were conducted using the Bootstrap Autoregressive Distributed Lag (BARDL) methodology. The results confirm that solid waste recycling has a positive influence on economic growth in both the short and long terms. This underscores the essential role of solid waste recycling as a fundamental component of the circular economy, emphasizing its potential to contribute to Turkiye's sustainable growth goals. Additionally, the study offers policy recommendations based on these findings. These recommendations include accelerating the transition to a circular economy, investing in technological innovations and infrastructure enhancements, organizing awareness and education programs, fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors, adopting innovative financing approaches, and establishing comprehensive legal regulations. In conclusion, the findings and recommendations of this study can contribute to Turkiye's achievement of sustainable economic growth and development goals, particularly as it approaches the 100th anniversary of the Republic. Prioritizing solid waste recycling as part of the circular economy vision can help create a better living environment and a sustainable future for the upcoming generations.