Where are the DOA recycling machines in Istanbul? How much does a PET bottle recycling machine pay?
Translated from Turkish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Turkey is implementing a Deposit Refund System (DRS) across all 81 provinces starting July 1, 2026.
- Deposit return machines (DOA) are being installed in markets, public spaces, and transportation hubs, with a focus on major cities like Istanbul.
- Consumers will receive a 1 TL incentive for each returned plastic, glass, or aluminum beverage container.
Turkey is rolling out a nationwide Deposit Refund System (DRS) for beverage containers, set to fully launch on July 1, 2026. This initiative aims to boost recycling rates by incentivizing consumers to return plastic, glass, and aluminum packaging.
The system, known as Depozitosu Olan Ambalajlar (DOA), will be implemented in all 81 provinces and 973 districts. Deposit return machines are being progressively installed in various locations, including major chain markets, shopping malls, universities, municipal buildings, and public transport centers. Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir are among the cities seeing a significant increase in these DOA points.
Consumers will receive a 1 Turkish Lira incentive for each eligible beverage container they return. This financial reward is intended to encourage participation in the recycling program. The Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change has spearheaded this effort, with Environment Minister Murat Kurum announcing the details of the incentive.
Residents in Istanbul can easily locate the nearest DOA return point using an online map. The expansion of these machines across the country signifies a major step towards a more circular economy and a commitment to environmental sustainability in Turkey.
Originally published by Cumhuriyet in Turkish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.