EİB Carries Its Sustainable Export Vision into a New Era

Yusuf Gabay has been appointed to the role of Sustainability and Organic Products Coordinator at Aegean Exporters Associations (EİB), one of Turkey's leading institutions in green transition, carbon management and sustainable export.

Gabay, who will coordinate sustainability efforts within EİB, took over the position from Mehmet Ali Işık, former Chairman of the Board of Aegean Dried Fruit and Products Exporters Association. Stating that they will work to advance EİB's sustainability efforts further, Gabay emphasized that green transition has become an integral part of exports.

"Sustainability is now one of the fundamental elements of competition"
Yusuf Gabay, noting that the new era in global trade is being shaped by sustainability criteria, said:

"The rules of world trade are changing. Carbon footprint, resource efficiency, circular economy, traceability and social responsibility criteria are now directly affecting competitive strength. The EU Green Deal, the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism and sustainability reporting obligations are opening the door to a new era for our exporters. As Aegean Exporters Associations, we are continuing our work with determination to help our members adapt to this transformation."

EİB takes leading role in sustainability
Aegean Exporters Associations is among institutions that have pioneered many firsts in the field of sustainability in Turkey. EİB holds the distinction of being the first exporters association to become a member of the United Nations Global Compact, one of the world's largest corporate sustainability initiatives.

Through regularly published Progress and Accountability Reports, EİB shares its sustainability performance transparently with the public and develops exemplary practices in environmental, social and governance areas.

Guiding the transformation journey of over 8,000 exporting companies
Through the Sustainability Working Group operating within EİB, activities are being carried out that encompass 12 exporters associations.

EİB, which provides training and consulting services on carbon footprint management, sustainable export strategies, circular economy applications, EU Green Deal and Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, is currently supporting the green transition process of over 8,000 exporting companies.

Companies are also guided in accessing green finance, sustainability reporting and compliance with international regulations.

66 trainings and 2,500 participants in one year
EİB's training activities in the field of sustainability continue at full pace.

Throughout 2025, 66 sustainability-themed trainings, webinars, panels and workshops were organized, reaching approximately 2,500 participants. The trainings addressed Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), decarbonization practices, EU regulations, circular economy and sustainable production.

Sustainability projects recognized with international awards
EİB's sustainability efforts are also receiving recognition on international platforms.

The "Sustainable Management of Aflatoxin-Contaminated Dried Figs Project" conducted by Aegean Dried Fruit and Products Exporters Association was awarded the "Sustainability Award" at the 42nd International Congress on Dried Fruits and Nuts (INC) held in Spain.

Meanwhile, Life Cycle Assessment consulting work carried out in the textile sector was honored with the "Best Practice Example" award by the Ministry of Commerce.

New era priorities: Carbon management and artificial intelligence
Stating that carbon management, climate risks, circular economy and digital transformation will be at the center of sustainability efforts in the new period, Yusuf Gabay said:

"We will continue to increase our companies' capacity on carbon management and sustainability reporting, accelerate their compliance with the CBAM process and support energy efficiency projects. In addition, greater utilization of international funds, increased effectiveness in EU projects and integration of artificial intelligence and digital technologies into sustainability efforts will be among our priorities. Our goal is to strengthen sustainability roadmaps for our sectors and contribute to the global competitiveness of Turkish exports."