Government recycling system
Istanbul lacks a formal government-operated recycling system. Instead, the city relies heavily on informal recyclers, often seen on the streets with large bags collecting materials like cardboard, metal, and hard plastic. These individuals do not follow a set schedule, making their appearance in neighborhoods unpredictable. Residents can leave recyclable materials on the street or near trash bins, but there is no guarantee that these items will be picked up by the recyclers before the regular waste trucks, which typically transport everything to the landfill.