Policy on Supporting Aquatic Ecosystems

Purpose
Sakarya University is committed to the conservation and sustainable utilization of aquatic ecosystems. This policy outlines the university’s dedication to education, outreach, and responsible practices in managing oceans, seas, lakes, rivers, and marine resources, with a specific emphasis on preventing and reducing marine pollution of all kinds, particularly from land-based activities.

Policy Details

1. Education and Awareness Programs

   • Student and Community Education Programs: The university will offer education programs focused on conservation and sustainable management of aquatic resources, including efforts to raise awareness of the impacts of land-based pollution on marine ecosystems.
   • Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture Awareness: Sakarya University will organize activities to educate students and staff about sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, and water management practices, with an emphasis on pollution prevention and responsible ecosystem management.
   • Awareness of Overfishing and Destructive Fishing Practices: The university will engage local and national communities in awareness activities addressing overfishing, illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and destructive fishing methods, to encourage conservation and responsible fishing practices.

2. Outreach and Community Engagement

   • Sustainable Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Tourism Programs: The university will conduct outreach programs for local and national communities on the sustainable management of fisheries, aquaculture, and tourism, promoting practices that balance ecological preservation with economic benefits.
   • Freshwater Ecosystem Management and Water Conservation: Sakarya University will provide educational and outreach programs for communities on freshwater ecosystem conservation, water irrigation practices, and sustainable water management, fostering community-wide commitment to protecting water resources.
   • Prevention and Reduction of Marine Pollution: The university is committed to initiatives that prevent and reduce marine pollution from land-based activities. This includes collaborative projects, educational campaigns, and applied research on pollution control technologies and best practices to minimize harmful runoff into aquatic ecosystems.

3. Sustainable Seafood Sourcing

   • Seasonal and Local Sourcing: Seafood served on campus will be sourced according to seasonal availability to reduce environmental impact. Whenever feasible, the university will prioritize local suppliers to support regional ecosystems and decrease transportation-related emissions.
   • Supplier Review and Sustainability Standards: The university will conduct an annual review of seafood suppliers to ensure they meet sustainability standards, focusing on sustainable harvesting practices, environmental compliance, and responsible fisheries management.

Implementation
This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure compliance with evolving best practices in sustainability and environmental stewardship. Sakarya University is committed to adapting this policy to reflect new developments and goals for the conservation of aquatic ecosystems and the reduction of pollution impacts from land-based activities.