Climate Change, Energy, and the Environment in Turkey

There is an increasing consensus in both the scientific and political communities, that a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions is necessary to limit the magnitude and extent of climate change. Renewable energy systems already reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the energy sector. Turkey is heavily dependent on expensive imported energy resources that place a big burden on the economy, and air pollution is becoming a great environmental concern in the country. The major cities of western Turkey are cosmopolitan centers of industry, finance, and trade, whereas the eastern part of the country is relatively underdeveloped. Turkey's high rate of energy-related carbon emissions growth is expected to accelerate, with emissions climbing from 57 million tons in 2000 to almost 210 million tons in 2020. Carbon intensity in Turkey is higher than the western developed national average. For example, Turkey's total CO2 emissions amounted to 239 million tons in 2006. In this regard, renewable energy resources appear to be one of the most efficient and effective solutions for clean and sustainable energy development in Turkey. This article presents a review for developments of climate change, energy, and environment in Turkey.