“In Turkey’s coal sector, workplace accidents and the subcontracting of workers is increasing, wages are falling, women are excluded from employment and union membership rates are declining. Therefore, from a labour market perspective, an exit from coal is not only possible, but also desirable” – Özlem Katısöz, Climate and Energy Policy Coordinator for Turkey
In Turkey, CAN Europe is working actively and collaboratively with civil society organisations and think tanks to generate grassroots pressure aimed at advocating for a government decision to phase out coal. This united approach underscores the vital role that CAN Europe is playing in fostering collective action towards sustainable energy transitions in Turkey.
The impact of one of these efforts has been illustrated in the report Milas beyond coal, a co-published effort by CAN Europe, 350.org, the local association KARDOK, the village association from the coal region, and Milas City Council. Focussing on the local perspective of a just transition, the report zooms in on the case of Milas, a coal region in Turkey, exploring the region’s potential for olive oil cultivation and eco-tourism and how these present opportunities for employment and economic growth for residents.
Another significant study, Challenges and Proposed Solutions for Exiting Coal-Based Employment was co-authored and published with the Sustainable Economy and Finance Association (SEFIA). The study identified essential conditions and policy areas impacting the transition away from coal and outlines necessary steps to achieve a just transition in Turkey. The study outlines how viable a just transition away from coal would be for workers and identifies the potential to improve their conditions under specific circumstances.
