Istanbul Cleans Over 5,000 Tons of Waste from Coasts in First Half of 2026

Istanbul's commitment to maintaining its coastal beauty and environmental health is evident in its ongoing waste removal efforts. In the first half of 2026, a significant 5,291 tons of waste were collected from the city's beaches and coastlines. This follows a substantial effort in 2025, where a total of 8,725 tons of waste, including 3,861 tons of seaweed, were cleared from these areas. The Istanbul Municipality, through its subsidiary İSTAÇ, ensures that cleaning operations continue year-round, preparing approximately 4 million square meters of beach area for public use and maintaining cleanliness even after the season ends.

Beyond routine collection, the municipality is employing advanced strategies to combat pollution. A network of 83 cameras has been installed at various coastal points to enable early detection and rapid response to waste accumulation. This system allows for the swift deployment of cleaning teams and vessels before waste can disperse. Furthermore, collected packaging waste is sorted on-site and delivered to licensed recycling firms, reintegrating materials into the economy. The municipality also conducts marine surface cleaning, collecting 550 tons of waste from 5 million square meters of sea surface in the first six months of 2026 alone, using 13 specialized boats.

To foster a broader sense of environmental responsibility, the Istanbul Municipality engages in public awareness initiatives. These include exhibiting waste recovered from the sea in public squares and conducting surveys to highlight the impact of marine debris on living organisms. Collaborative events with corporations, NGOs, and students are organized to enhance public environmental consciousness and promote the protection of marine ecosystems. These multifaceted efforts underscore Istanbul's dedication to a cleaner environment and healthier seas.