Goal 15: Sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, halt and reverse land degradation, halt biodiversity loss
SDG 15.2.1. Events about sustainable use of land
Istanbul Okan University actively supports and organizes events aimed at promoting the conservation and sustainable utilization of land, including forests and wild areas. The university is committed to environmental sustainability through various initiatives, such as educational seminars, workshops, and student-led projects that focus on land preservation, reforestation, and the responsible management of natural resources. By collaborating with environmental organizations and engaging students and staff, the university fosters a culture of awareness and action toward protecting ecosystems and promoting sustainable land use practices.
The Memorial Forest event organized by our university, which boasts one of the greenest campuses in Türkiye, and the Regional Forestry Directorate, thousands of saplings were planted.
During the event, held in celebration of International Women's Day on March 8th, a total of 5,000 saplings were donated in honor of our female staff members. Together, they planted the saplings for the Istanbul Okan University Memorial Forest.
At the event, held in Ballıca Village, our Chairman of the Board of Trustees Bekir Okan, Vice Chairperson of the Board Işıl Okan Gülen, Rector Prof. Dr. Mustafa Koçak, Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Alinur Büyükaksoy and Prof. Dr. Güliz Muğan, along with our academics and administrative staff, planted the saplings and gave them their first water.
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The "Let’s Do It!" environmental clean-up awareness movement was held simultaneously in 169 countries on Saturday, September 21, 2019, across 81 provinces and thousands of locations in Turkey. Organized globally by the Let’s Do It! Foundation as part of World Cleanup Day, a large-scale waste collection event took place in Istanbul with the participation of municipalities, universities, NGOs, and volunteers.
Our university’s Research Assistant Görkem Önal from the Faculty of Arts, Design, and Architecture, Cinema-TV Department, was chosen as the 2019 Istanbul representative for this globally popular event. An 80-person team composed of our staff and students participated in the waste collection event in Kartal. They cleaned up waste in the Aydos Forest of Kartal.
SDG 15.2.2. Sustainably farmed food on campus
Istanbul Okan University has implemented policies to ensure that food on campus is sustainably sourced. These policies include prioritizing suppliers who practice sustainable farming methods, supporting local and organic food producers, and reducing the environmental impact of food production. By promoting sustainable agriculture, the university aims to minimize its carbon footprint, reduce waste, and contribute to the overall health and well-being of both the campus community and the environment. Additionally, initiatives to raise awareness about sustainable food consumption are regularly conducted to engage students, staff, and faculty.
Safe and Sustainable Food Policy
SDG 15.2.3. Maintain and extend current ecosystems’ biodiversity
Istanbul Okan University actively works to maintain and extend existing ecosystems and their biodiversity, with a particular focus on protecting ecosystems under threat. Through various research projects, conservation programs, and partnerships with environmental organizations, the university is committed to preserving both plant and animal species. Initiatives include habitat restoration, monitoring endangered species, and promoting biodiversity-friendly practices on campus and in surrounding areas. By involving students, faculty, and local communities in these efforts, the university helps to foster a deeper understanding of the importance of ecological balance and biodiversity conservation.
SDG 15.2.4. Educational programmes on ecosystems
Istanbul Okan University offers educational programs on ecosystems, focusing on wild flora and fauna, for local and national communities. These programs aim to raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity, ecological conservation, and sustainable practices. Through workshops, seminars, and field studies, the university engages both students and the public in understanding the dynamics of ecosystems and the need to protect endangered species and habitats.
From Farm to Table Agriculture
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SDG 15.2.5. Sustainable management of land for agriculture (educational outreach)
Istanbul Okan University offers educational programs and outreach initiatives for local and national communities on the sustainable management of land for agriculture. These programs focus on promoting sustainable farming practices, efficient land use, and environmental stewardship. Through workshops, training sessions, and collaborations with local farmers and agricultural organizations, the university helps communities adopt eco-friendly agricultural methods that ensure long-term soil health and productivity.
From Farm to Table Agriculture
SDG 15.2.6. Sustainable management of land for tourism (educational outreach)
Istanbul Okan University offers educational programs and outreach initiatives for local and national communities on the sustainable management of land for tourism. These programs focus on promoting eco-friendly tourism practices, minimizing environmental impact, and ensuring the preservation of natural resources and cultural heritage. Through workshops, seminars, and collaborations with tourism professionals, the university helps communities and businesses adopt sustainable tourism models that balance economic development with environmental conservation.
The importance of special interest tourism is increasingly growing in response to changing tourist demands and needs, as well as within the framework of sustainable tourism. As a country with high tourism potential, exploring different types of special interest tourism, in addition to mass tourism, will not only enhance Turkey's competitiveness in tourism but also enable the country to gain a larger share of the global tourism market. In this context, the primary goal is to learn about and promote special interest tourism.
SDG 15.3.1. Sustainable use, conservation and restoration of land (policy)
Istanbul Okan University has a policy in place to ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems associated with the university, particularly forests, mountains, and drylands. This policy focuses on promoting biodiversity, implementing sustainable land management practices, and engaging in restoration projects that enhance the ecological health of these ecosystems. Through research, community outreach, and collaborations with environmental organizations, the university is committed to preserving natural habitats and promoting sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and local communities.
Biodiversity and Ecosystems Protection Policy
SDG 15.3.2. Monitoring IUCN and other conservation species (policies)
Istanbul Okan University has a policy to identify, monitor, and protect any IUCN Red Listed species and species on the national conservation list that have habitats in areas affected by the university's operations. This policy includes conducting regular assessments of local biodiversity, implementing conservation measures, and collaborating with relevant authorities and organizations to ensure the protection of these species. By raising awareness and involving the university community in conservation efforts, the university aims to contribute to the preservation of endangered species and their habitats.
Biodiversity and Ecosystems Protection Policy
SDG 15.3.3. Local biodiversity included in planning and development
Istanbul Okan University incorporates local biodiversity into its planning and development processes, including the construction of new buildings. The university prioritizes environmental assessments to evaluate potential impacts on local ecosystems and biodiversity during the planning stages. This approach ensures that development projects consider the preservation of native species and habitats. Additionally, the university promotes sustainable design practices that integrate green spaces and biodiversity-friendly features, contributing to the overall ecological health of the campus and surrounding areas.
Biodiversity and Ecosystems Protection Policy
SDG 15.3.4. Alien species impact reduction (policies)
Istanbul Okan University has a policy in place to reduce the impact of alien species on campus. This policy includes measures to identify and manage invasive species, promote native plant species, and raise awareness among the university community about the importance of preserving local biodiversity. Through research, monitoring, and educational initiatives, the university aims to mitigate the effects of alien species and protect the integrity of its ecosystems.
Biodiversity and Ecosystems Protection Policy
SDG 15.3.5. Collaboration for shared land ecosystems
Istanbul Okan University collaborates with the local community through partnerships to maintain shared land ecosystems. These collaborations involve working with local organizations, government agencies, and community groups on conservation projects, habitat restoration, and biodiversity initiatives. By engaging students, faculty, and community members in these efforts, the university fosters a collective responsibility for protecting and preserving local ecosystems while also promoting awareness of environmental issues and sustainable practices.
Collaborative Success for Joint Solutions in Biodiversity and Ecosystems
SDG 15.4.1. Water discharge guidelines and standards
Istanbul Okan University has established water quality standards and guidelines for water discharges to uphold water quality and protect ecosystems, wildlife, and human health and welfare. These standards ensure that any discharges from university operations meet regulatory requirements and are monitored to prevent pollution. By implementing best practices for water management, the university aims to minimize its environmental impact and contribute to the sustainability of local water resources.
SDG 15.4.2. Policy on plastic waste reduction
Istanbul Okan University has a policy in place to reduce plastic waste on campus. This policy includes initiatives to minimize the use of single-use plastics, promote recycling programs, and encourage the use of sustainable alternatives. The university actively engages students, staff, and faculty in awareness campaigns and educational programs to foster a culture of sustainability and responsible waste management. Through these efforts, the university aims to significantly decrease plastic waste and promote environmental stewardship within the campus community.
SDG 15.4.3. Policy on hazardous waste disposal
Istanbul Okan University has a policy and established processes for waste disposal that specifically cover hazardous materials. This policy ensures that hazardous waste is managed safely and in compliance with national regulations. The university provides guidelines for the proper handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials to minimize risks to health and the environment. Additionally, training and awareness programs are implemented for staff and students to promote safe practices and ensure that hazardous waste is disposed of responsibly.
