Climate Change and Environmental Security: An Analysis in the Context of Turkey’s Foreign Trade and the European Green Deal

Abstract

This study analyzes the effects of climate change on Turkey’s environmental security and foreign trade in the context of the European Green Deal. The multidimensional crises caused by global warming, such as water scarcity, drought, loss of agricultural productivity, and migration, have transformed climate change into a security issue with not only environmental but also economic and political consequences. Due to its location in the Mediterranean Basin, Turkey is highly vulnerable and faces risks in areas such as water stress, energy dependence, and urbanization pressure. The fact that a large part of Turkey’s exports is directed to the EU makes the European Green Deal and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism a critical factor that directly affects its industrial structure and competitiveness. While the green transition process requires cost increases and technological adaptation in carbon-intensive sectors, it also presents significant opportunities in renewable energy, sustainable production, and green finance. The study presents the transformation between Turkey’s climate policies and foreign trade dynamics within a holistic framework, drawing on environmental security, human security, and postcolonial security approaches.