Sakarya University – Free and Inclusive Access to Open and Green Areas
In line with its Green Campus vision, Sakarya University provides permanent and free public access to its open and green spaces throughout the year. Of the Esentepe Campus’s total area of 2,330,665 m², approximately 979,192 m² consists of green and forested zones.
Overlooking the scenic Sapanca Lake, the university offers an environment intertwined with nature, serving as both an educational and recreational space. Walking paths, green rest areas, bicycle routes, and picnic points are open to students, staff, and the public without any fee, membership, or special permission requirements.
The Green Campus approach integrates the university’s principles of environmental sustainability and community engagement. Within this framework, local residents, families, and school groups frequently visit the campus to enjoy nature walks, take photographs, and participate in outdoor cultural and artistic events.
Information, visuals, and maps related to the university’s green areas are publicly available on the Sustainability Office’s Green Campus webpage. Through these initiatives, Sakarya University contributes to SDG 11.7 by creating an accessible, inclusive, and sustainable living environment for all segments of society.
SAU Spring Festival (May 2024)
Held on May 17, 2024, the SAU Spring Festival demonstrated Sakarya University’s commitment to providing free and inclusive public access to its open and green campus areas. The event took place across the expansive outdoor spaces of the Esentepe Campus and was open to students, university staff, and the public free of charge.
Throughout the festival, the university’s green lawns and recreational areas hosted concerts, student club activities, and art performances. Numerous visitors from Sakarya and nearby districts gathered on campus to enjoy events centered around music, art, and nature.
By enabling public participation in large-scale outdoor events such as the Spring Festival, Sakarya University strengthens its Green Campus approach and shares its campus spaces with the community. This practice contributes to SDG 11.7 by promoting accessible, inclusive, and safe public areas for all.
