Policy on Divesting Investments from Carbon-Intensive Energy Industries
Sakarya University has adopted a policy to gradually divest from carbon-intensive energy industries, such as coal and oil, in line with its environmental sustainability strategy and its goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2053. The university’s investment approach prioritizes renewable and low-carbon energy sources, focusing on hydropower, solar, wind, and hydrogen technologies.
Energy investments are guided by the principle of directing resources toward renewable energy and the use of environmentally friendly, energy-efficient products (A+, A++, A+++) in procurement processes.
In 2024, the university’s renewable energy generation exceeded total electricity consumption, achieving 109.99% renewable supply, certified through International Renewable Energy Certificates (I-REC) derived from hydropower (4,120 MWh), solar (3,140 MWh), and wind (2,740 MWh) sources.
Additionally, the “100% Hydrogen-Fueled Boiler Design and Prototype Production” project, supported by the TÜBİTAK TEYDEB 1505 University–Industry Collaboration Program, exemplifies Sakarya University’s efforts to develop clean, hydrogen-based technologies and promote the transition to low-carbon energy systems.
This divestment-oriented investment policy aligns with the Energy Efficiency 2030 Strategy, the Second National Energy Efficiency Action Plan (2024–2030), and Türkiye’s Net Zero Emission Vision for 2053, reflecting Sakarya University’s commitment to progressively reducing dependence on carbon-intensive energy sources while advancing renewable and sustainable energy solutions.
Carbon Emission Reduction and Divestment Policy
In line with its environmental sustainability strategy, Sakarya University aims to be fully carbon neutral by 2053.
Emission Reduction (Scope 2): In 2024, the university supplied 109.99% of its consumed energy from renewable sources via I-REC certificates, reducing its electricity-based Scope 2 emissions to 0 (zero) tons.
Emission Reduction (Scope 1 & 3): The university implements a "Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Program." Within this program;
Electric vehicle charging stations have been installed on campus. Electric scooter and bicycle rental services are encouraged. Low-carbon transportation was supported by closing the campus to vehicle traffic during European Mobility Week.
Divestment Policy: The university's 2053 carbon-neutral target and 100% renewable energy commitment demonstrate its determination to divest from carbon-intensive energy sources (coal, oil) and build an independent infrastructure. The university strategically directs its energy investments towards renewable energy sources to promote sustainability and reduce its carbon footprint.
Sustainability in Procurement Processes
Energy efficiency is central to the university's investment and procurement policies.
Policy Development R&D
EV Infrastructure Law: Supported under the TÜBİTAK 1001 program, Asst. Prof. Dr. Emine Develi Ayverdi's project aims to create legal recommendations for national policy by examining the "Legal Basis of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations from a Competition Law Perspective."
Incentive Policies: The master's thesis of Kerem Aydın, a student at the Institute of Social Sciences, examined Türkiye's transition process to renewable energy and the impact of incentive policies on investments, offering recommendations for increasing investment and strengthening public awareness.
Low-Carbon Innovation: "BATTAI," an innovative battery startup by SAU student Mert Karakoç, reached the finals of ITU's "Enerjim Sensin" (You Are My Energy) entrepreneurship competition.
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