As Turkey progresses towards its 2053 Net Zero target, the composite sector is poised to lead this transformation with its advantages of lightness, durability, and sustainability. However, for the sector to capitalize on this opportunity, it needs to focus on energy and carbon management, recycling technologies, and R&D investments.
KEMAL DARCAN
Composites Manufacturers Association (KSD)
Chairman of the Board
Globally, the decarbonization of industry is no longer merely an environmental necessity but has also become one of the key determinants of economic competitiveness. While the European Green Deal sets out the goal of a carbon-neutral continent by 2050, the US Green Investment Plan, China's 2060 net-zero target, and Japan's low-carbon industrial policies are also accelerating industrial transformation. In this transformation process, the composite sector, distinguished by its advantages such as lightness, durability, and sustainability, plays a critical role, as do energy-intensive and raw material-dependent sectors.
From the perspective of Turkish industry, this global transformation journey, although still in its early stages, presents significant opportunities. Turkey has announced its 2053 Net Zero target, and with the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and the emerging national Emissions Trading System (TR-ETS), the transition of industry to low-carbon production has become mandatory. In this context, the composite sector faces both risks and significant advantages.
According to the latest report published by Composites United, sustainability and recycling in the European composite sector are no longer side activities but have directly moved to the center of business strategies. Particularly, the end-of-life management of glass fiber and carbon fiber reinforced plastics is of strategic importance for the future of the sector. The European Composites Environmental Association (ECCA) is developing standards and roadmaps for composite recycling within the framework of circular economy practices.
From the perspective of Turkish industry, the preparation process for this global transformation, although still at the beginning, holds significant opportunities.
COMPOSITE SECTOR IS GROWING
Turkey's composite sector is showing growth, especially in areas such as automotive, construction, energy, and marine. However, to avoid falling behind in international competition in terms of sustainability, the sector needs to focus on three key points…
Energy management and carbon management: The use of renewable energy in composite production processes should be increased, and carbon footprint measurements should be systematized.
Recycling and circular economy: Technologies that enable the recycling of end-of-life composites should be supported at both investment and collaboration levels. It is of great importance for Turkey to integrate into the work carried out under the ECCA in Europe.
R&D and education: R&D projects that will increase the use of sustainable materials in composites should be supported; expert human resources in this field should be trained through university-industry collaborations.
In summary, global decarbonization is inevitable, and this process is also an opportunity for Turkish industry. The composite sector has the potential to be one of the pioneering actors of this transformation, with its high value-added products and advantages of lightness and durability. However, the realization of this potential depends on the sustainability vision being embraced by all stakeholders in the sector. The Composites Manufacturers Association – Our Sustainability Committee organizes webinars as an output of its monthly routine meetings and continues its efforts to raise awareness in our sector.
In conclusion, the Turkish composite sector should view decarbonization not only as a means of compliance with the EU market but also as a strategic lever for leadership in global competition.
Sources:
- European composite waste potential – EuCIA analyses
- ECCA establishment and targets – EuCIA & JEC resources
- Composites Germany 25th Market Research results
This content has been translated using artificial intelligence technology.