Sakarya University has implemented a comprehensive Plastic Use Minimisation Policy as a core component of its sustainability strategy and Zero Waste Management System. This policy is coordinated by the Zero Waste Coordinatorship under the Sustainability Commission, aiming to systematically reduce the use of single-use plastics and promote reusable, recyclable, and environmentally responsible alternatives across all university operations.
The policy aligns with the Zero Waste Regulation issued by the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change, the National Circular Economy Strategy and Action Plan (2024–2030), and the EU Green Deal Adaptation Strategy.
Institutional Framework and Implementation
Under this framework, Sakarya University has completely eliminated single-use plastics from its dining facilities.
Meals are served exclusively on porcelain plates with metal cutlery, replacing disposable plastic products. Bottled water sales have been discontinued, and campus-wide refill stations and drinking fountains provide free, safe, potable water for students and staff.
Procurement and service contracts require the use of biodegradable or recyclable packaging. Suppliers are encouraged to provide eco-labeled and concentrated cleaning products to minimize plastic container waste. During institutional events and conferences, cloth bags and paper-based materials are used instead of plastic.
Reusable habits are further encouraged through incentive mechanisms cafeterias and coffee stands offer discounts for students and staff who bring their own mugs or thermoses, promoting sustainable behavior within the campus community.
Awareness, Education, and Student Engagement
The Zero Waste Coordinatorship and the Environmental Engineering Department organize annual awareness campaigns, workshops, and student competitions focused on waste prevention and plastic-free living.
Student-led organizations, including the Nature and Animal Rights Club, conduct the Plastic Cap Collection Project, where collected plastic caps are recycled to support feeding and care initiatives for campus animals.
These actions strengthen community engagement and integrate environmental ethics into daily campus life.
Monitoring and Compliance
All plastic reduction activities are monitored and recorded through the Integrated Environmental Information System (MOTAT), operated by the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change.
This system allows the University to track plastic waste quantities, measure reductions, and ensure compliance with national environmental standards.
Sakarya University holds an official Zero Waste Certificate, demonstrating compliance with Türkiye’s national sustainability framework. Annual audits are conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of plastic reduction practices and identify new opportunities for improvement.
Alignment with National and Global Sustainability Goals
The University’s policy directly supports Türkiye’s Zero Waste Policy and the 2053 Green Development and Circular Economy Vision, emphasizing waste prevention, reuse, and recycling as strategic national goals. Preparatory work has also been initiated for ISO 14001 Environmental Management System certification, ensuring continuous monitoring and environmental performance improvement.
Through this integrated policy framework, Sakarya University has effectively reduced single-use plastic consumption, fostered sustainable behavior across its community, and established a replicable model for responsible resource management in higher education.
These initiatives contribute directly to SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and SDG 13: Climate Action, positioning the University as a national example of circular and sustainable campus transformation.
Sakarya University Plastic Waste Reduction Policy
