TAYRAŞ, Türkiye’s first and only upcycling base oil refinery, has once again been honored with the prestigious “Carbon Hero” award at the 10th Istanbul Carbon Summit for its outstanding commitment to environmental sustainability.
TAYRAŞ transforms used lubricants into premium Group II+ base oils through high-tech refining and a two-stage hydrotreatment process. This innovative approach achieves a remarkable 70% reduction in carbon emissions compared to traditional base oil production from crude oil. Additionally, it delivers an 80% to 90% decrease in natural resource consumption, acidification, eutrophication effects, and fine particle emissions. Collaborating with Fokus Zukunft for conducting carbon footprint measurements and reporting in line with international standards, and working with the Heidelberg Institute for Energy and Environment for process-based life cycle analyses, TAYRAŞ embraces a “cradle-to-grave” approach and ensures a holistic assessment—measuring and proving everything from the carbon footprint of its products to their broader ecological effects.
While TAYRAŞ reduces carbon emissions through advanced upcycling processes, it also aims to contribute strongly to the national economy by decreasing Türkiye’s heavy reliance on base oil imports—currently at 90%—by producing high-quality, domestically sourced products. If Türkiye’s waste oils—exceeding 350 thousand tons annually—were properly converted into high-grade raw materials for the lubricant sector, as demonstrated by TAYRAŞ, the country could achieve an annual emission reduction of approximately 500 thousand tons. Additionally, this transition could generate 300 million dollars per year in tax revenue while helping to lower the national trade deficit.
Future Vision: Expanding Capacity, Deepening Impact
In 2025, TAYRAŞ is set to increase its re-refining capacity to 150,000 tons. This expansion is more than just a boost in output—it establishes TAYRAŞ as a technology hub dedicated to green transformation. As often emphasized by Chairman of the Board Mehmet Afşin, used lubricants are recognized as a strategic resource, shaping the production of high-quality, eco-friendly base oils. This forward-thinking approach positions TAYRAŞ not merely as an industrial facility, but as a symbolic investment in Türkiye’s green development journey.
With its visionary strategy and cutting-edge technological infrastructure, TAYRAŞ actively reduces carbon emissions through measurable, industry-leading methods. By championing circular economy principles on an industrial scale, the company has once again earned recognition at the Istanbul Carbon Summit, winning the prestigious “Carbon Hero” award for the second time. This achievement reinforces TAYRAŞ’s commitment to sustainability within the sector and in advancing Türkiye’s long-term environmental and economic goals.
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