The launch event for the "Guide on Management of Debris Waste Resulting from Urban Transformation, Earthquakes, and Possible Disasters," organized by SKD Turkey, took place on June 12, 2024, at Istanbul Technical University Ayazağa Campus, Süleyman Demirel Cultural Center.

Approximately 65 participants attended the launch, which introduced the guide addressing the need for a comprehensive management plan to manage waste in our country, identify necessary actions before and after disasters, and ensure resilience and preparedness for disasters. The guide, sponsored by main sponsors Akçansa and IC İçtaş İnşaat, supported by Çimsa, and with in-kind contributions from the Development and Investment Bank of Turkey (TKYB), was created by Prof. Dr. Erdem Görgün, Co-Founder of İO Environmental Solutions. It aims to significantly contribute to increasing the circularity of the construction sector in Turkey and supporting the Sustainable Development Goals related to debris waste management.

The opening speeches of the launch meeting were made by Istanbul Technical University Rector Prof. Dr. İsmail Koyuncu and SKD Turkey Board Chairman Ediz Günsel. The program continued with Prof. Dr. Erdem Görgün sharing the project findings on debris waste. Following this, Marmara Municipalities Union Secretary General Dr. M. Cemil Arslan, who was a guest speaker, made valuable assessments. The second part of the meeting featured important statements by Kemal Duran, Director of the Earthquake and Ground Investigation Department from Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, who participated as a guest speaker. The event concluded with a good practices panel moderated by Development and Investment Bank of Turkey Deputy General Manager and Sustainability Impact Leader Seçil Yıldız.

SKD Turkey Board Chairman Ediz Günsel expressed their belief that the guide will help increase the circularity of the construction sector in Turkey and support the Sustainable Development Goals related to debris waste management. He emphasized that the amount of debris generated by the February 6 earthquakes was one of the worst scenarios worldwide and, if not properly managed, could lead to long-term environmental pollution, public health issues, and economic losses. Günsel highlighted that good governance, selective demolition, and building strengthening methods applied in developed countries improve the circularity of the construction sector and that similar policies and technical infrastructure need to be developed in Turkey. He stated that SKD Turkey hopes the guide will mobilize and guide all stakeholders in the ecosystem.