Turkey's Green Taxonomy Labels Nuclear and Gas as Clean, Sparking Backlash Before COP31

Turkey's Green Taxonomy Regulation has officially taken effect ahead of the COP31 climate summit, and it is already drawing sharp criticism. The regulation classifies nuclear energy, fossil gas, and carbon-intensive manufacturing as "green" investments — a move that experts say undermines the very purpose of a sustainable finance framework [1].

The taxonomy is meant to guide investors toward environmentally friendly projects. But by including fossil gas and nuclear power in the green category, Turkey risks channeling money toward energy sources that still produce significant emissions. Carbon-intensive manufacturing, which also made the list, has raised further concerns [1].

Experts assessed the regulation for bianet and warned that such classifications could weaken global trust in green finance standards. The timing is particularly sensitive, as Turkey prepares to host the COP31 climate summit, where world leaders will gather to discuss emissions cuts and clean energy transitions [1].

The controversy reflects a broader global divide over what counts as "green." As countries race to attract investment in clean energy, some are broadening their definitions to include transitional technologies. Critics argue this dilutes the impact of climate finance and delays the shift to truly renewable sources [1].

For Turkey, the stakes are high. The country sits at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, navigating economic pressures, migration flows, and regional security concerns. Its democratic institutions are already strained by internal polarization and external geopolitical rivalries. How it defines green energy — and who benefits — will shape its credibility on the world stage as COP31 approaches [1].