Best Climate Change Law Lawyers in Turkey

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Pi Legal Consultancy

Pi Legal Consultancy

15 minutes Free Consultation
Istanbul, Turkey

Founded in 2021
55 people in their team
English
Spanish
Russian
Arabic
French
 Pi Legal Consultancy [PiLC] is a legal & business consulting international law office in Turkey. We have four offices based in İstanbul, Ankara and Batman. We also enjoy solution partners and lawyers based in most European Countries, Canada and the United States. PiLC is one of the...
Arnone & Sicomo - International Law Firm

Arnone & Sicomo - International Law Firm

15 minutes Free Consultation
Istanbul, Turkey

Founded in 2017
28 people in their team
Italian
Turkish
English
Arnone & Sicomo is an International Law Firm founded by attorneys Gioia Arnone and Donatella Sicomo, with offices in major Italian cities including Palermo, Milan, Rome, Salerno, Catania, Cuneo, Venice, and Trento, as well as international locations such as London, Barcelona, Luxembourg,...
Oran Partners

Oran Partners

1 hour Free Consultation
Istanbul, Turkey

Founded in 2016
10 people in their team
English
Turkish
Oran Partners stands out as the only law firm in Turkey focused entirely on medical malpractice. Our team of committed trial lawyers specializes in representing international individuals affected by medical negligence and their families. We bring a wealth of insight from both the medical and legal...
Kula Law Firm
Izmir, Turkey

Founded in 2009
11 people in their team
English
Turkish
Kula Law Firm providing comprehensive legal services to corporations and natural persons. One of the main facts of the Law is to be compatible with the changing conditions within the country and the world. Kula Law Firm adopts as a principle to be attuned to these changes expeditiously and always...
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Lexin Legal

Lexin Legal

1 hour Free Consultation
Istanbul, Turkey

Founded in 2018
12 people in their team
English
Turkish
Arabic
Russian
Italian
German
Kurdish
Armenian
Hebrew (modern)
Lexin Legal is a law firm established by two founding partners, Onur Calisici and Oruc Aygun with the primary objective of providing legal services in an efficient and effective manner. Lexin legal’s international composition draws experts from a wide range of countries mainly including Turkey,...
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Founded in 1985
English
Established in 1985, Hasan Şahin Avukatlık Ortaklığı operates from offices in Istanbul and Ankara, providing comprehensive legal services across various sectors. The firm's expertise encompasses banking and finance, mergers and acquisitions, energy law, intellectual property, labor law, public...
Kaşlıoğlu Hukuk Bürosu
Istanbul, Turkey

English
Established in 1974 by Attorney İsmail Kaşlıoğlu, Kaşlıoğlu Hukuk Bürosu has been delivering comprehensive legal services for over four decades. Based in Istanbul, the firm collaborates with offices in Ankara, İzmir, Bursa, and Adana, as well as international associates, to provide a broad...
Heuvels Uras Europe
Besiktas, Turkey

Founded in 2019
English
Heuvels Uras is a full-service commercial law firm based in Turkey, offering a comprehensive range of legal services to both domestic and international clients. The firm's practice areas encompass corporate and mergers and acquisitions, shipping and transportation, litigation and dispute...

English
Kutbay Hukuk & Arabuluculuk, based in Zile, Tokat, offers comprehensive legal and mediation services across various domains, including Commercial Law, Labor Law, Corporate Law, Real Estate Law, Insurance Law, Compensation Law, Family Law, and Inheritance Law. The firm is committed to delivering...

Founded in 2010
English
GK Partners is a distinguished law firm based in Istanbul, Turkey, specializing in Turkish citizenship and company law. The firm offers comprehensive legal services to both local and international clients, guiding them through complex legal processes with a focus on achieving effective and...
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About Climate Change Law in Turkey

Climate change law in Turkey refers to the set of national laws, regulations, policies, and international agreements that address the mitigation of and adaptation to climate change. It encompasses efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote renewable energy, increase energy efficiency, and adapt to the adverse effects of climate change. In recent years, Turkey has taken significant steps to align its climate policies with global standards, especially after ratifying the Paris Agreement in 2021. The country is in the process of updating its climate change action plans, aiming to create a sustainable and low-carbon future. Legal frameworks governing climate change touch upon environmental law, energy law, construction regulations, urban planning, and international treaties.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal assistance can be crucial in many situations related to climate change law in Turkey. You may need a lawyer if you are:

  • Establishing or managing a business in sectors regulated for emissions or energy use
  • Involved in renewable energy projects that require permits or governmental approval
  • Challenging or complying with environmental regulations or emission limits
  • Negotiating contracts that include climate-related obligations and risk allocation
  • Adapting existing properties for compliance with new energy efficiency or urban resilience requirements
  • Pursuing or defending legal action related to environmental damage or non-compliance with climate regulations
  • Applying for grants, subsidies, or incentives for green initiatives
  • Understanding corporate sustainability and environmental reporting mandates

Lawyers with expertise in climate change law can help interpret complex regulations, ensure compliance, avoid penalties, and represent your interests in disputes.

Local Laws Overview

Turkey has a dynamic legal landscape concerning climate change. Key aspects of local laws include:

  • Climate Change Framework Legislation: Turkey is developing a comprehensive Climate Law to systematize climate policies, set emission targets, and enhance transparency.
  • Paris Agreement Commitments: Following ratification, Turkey is preparing to submit its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), which will set out specific emission reduction targets.
  • Energy Legislation: Laws incentivize renewable energy projects, including solar, wind, and geothermal, with specific licensing and support schemes (Renewable Energy Law No. 5346).
  • Emission and Effluent Control: The Regulation on the Control of Industrial Air Pollution sets emission limits for industrial facilities, while the Regulation on Energy Performance in Buildings addresses building standards.
  • Reporting and Monitoring: Various regulations mandate emission monitoring, reporting, and verification, primarily affecting heavy industry, energy, and large businesses.
  • Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): Projects likely to impact the environment must undergo an EIA, which increasingly considers climate change risks.
  • Urban and Infrastructure Planning: Climate resilience and adaptation measures are now factored in large development and infrastructure projects.

Turkish climate change law is evolving and becoming increasingly aligned with European Union (EU) environmental standards, prospectively affecting a broad range of actors in the public and private sectors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is climate change law and what does it regulate in Turkey?

Climate change law in Turkey regulates efforts to combat the causes and effects of climate change. It covers emission reductions, support for renewable energy, adaptation efforts, reporting obligations, and the integration of climate considerations in environmental law and infrastructure planning.

Has Turkey ratified the Paris Agreement?

Yes, Turkey ratified the Paris Agreement in October 2021 and is now developing new policies and emission reduction targets consistent with its commitment.

Are there incentives for renewable energy investments in Turkey?

Yes, Turkey provides various incentives for investments in renewable energy, including feed-in tariffs, purchase guarantees, and streamlined licensing processes under specific laws.

What kinds of businesses are subject to emission regulations in Turkey?

Industries with significant environmental impact or energy use, including energy production, manufacturing, mining, waste management, and large-scale agriculture, are among those subject to emission limits and regulations.

Does Turkey have a carbon trading or emissions trading system?

While Turkey is considering the creation of an emissions trading system (ETS) and has taken preparatory steps, a fully operational system is not yet in place as of mid 2024.

Are environmental impact assessments required for all projects?

No, but projects with significant potential environmental impacts, such as infrastructure developments or large industrial facilities, must undergo Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), which includes assessing climate change implications.

How can individuals or organizations be held accountable for violating climate regulations?

Penalties can include administrative fines, suspension of activities, corrective measures, or, in cases of severe harm, criminal prosecution. Regulatory authorities monitor compliance and enforce the law.

What legal obligations do companies have for climate change reporting?

Certain large companies and those in specific industries are required to monitor, report, and verify their greenhouse gas emissions under national and EU-aligned regulations.

Is environmental litigation common in Turkey?

Environmental and climate-related litigation is increasing, particularly as public awareness grows and legal mechanisms develop to challenge unlawful projects or insufficient regulatory action on climate change.

How can a lawyer help with compliance or disputes related to climate change law?

A climate change lawyer can interpret relevant regulations, advise on compliance strategies, represent clients in administrative or judicial proceedings, assist with permit applications, and help structure transactions to mitigate risk.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or wish to engage with organizations active in climate change law and policy in Turkey, consider the following resources:

  • Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change: The principal government body responsible for climate policy and implementation.
  • Turkish Environment Agency: Authority for monitoring environmental standards, emissions, and penalties.
  • Energy Market Regulatory Authority (EMRA): Regulates energy market operations and renewable energy licensing.
  • Turkish Bar Association and Local Bar Associations: Can provide directories of lawyers specializing in environmental and climate change law.
  • Academia and NGOs: Organizations such as TEMA Foundation, WWF Turkey, and Sabanci University Istanbul Policy Center are active in research, advocacy, and public education related to climate change.

Next Steps

If you require legal advice or assistance regarding climate change law in Turkey, consider the following steps:

  • Identify the nature of your issue - whether it is compliance, project development, reporting, litigation, or investment related.
  • Gather all relevant documentation - permits, correspondence, environmental assessments, or regulatory notifications.
  • Seek referrals from trusted sources or consult the Turkish Bar Association’s directory for lawyers or law firms specializing in environmental and climate law.
  • Prepare a list of questions or objectives you wish to discuss during your consultation.
  • Arrange an initial meeting to discuss your case, understand your legal obligations, and develop an action plan tailored to your needs.

Timely legal advice can help you navigate regulatory complexity, avoid costly penalties, and ensure your activities align with Turkey’s evolving climate goals.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Turkey through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Climate Change Law, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Turkey - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.