Sakarya University adheres to the Water Pollution Control Regulation (Su Kirliliği Kontrolü Yönetmeliği) issued by the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change, which establishes comprehensive guidelines for water quality and wastewater discharge practices to protect aquatic ecosystems, wildlife, and public health. In accordance with these requirements, the university implements primary wastewater filtration measures before discharge, with oil filters installed in drainage channels where oily waste is generated, such as cafeterias. Cooperation with the Sakarya Water and Sewerage Administration (SASKİ) supports the protection of drinking water infrastructure against wastewater contamination.
Given Sakarya's location in a high-risk earthquake zone, additional infrastructure measures have been implemented to enhance the resilience of water and wastewater systems against potential seismic activity. The Sakarya Metropolitan Municipality has installed a steel transmission pipeline in the university area to strengthen regional water infrastructure. Furthermore, filtration systems at wastewater discharge points contribute to pollution prevention, reflecting the university's commitment to maintaining water quality and protecting environmental and public health.
Figure 1. Sakarya University's Zero Waste Certificate, demonstrating institutional commitment to sustainable waste management and environmental protection.
Sakarya University implements a comprehensive action plan to reduce plastic waste on campus as part of its commitment to the national Zero Waste initiative, supported by the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change. The university's Climate Action Plan and Responsible Consumption and Production Policy promote waste prevention, resource efficiency, recycling, and sustainable procurement practices. These initiatives aim to minimize environmental pollution, reduce waste generation, protect natural resources, and contribute to a circular economy.
In alignment with the university's Zero Waste Management System, 1,200 waste bins have been installed at accessible locations across campus buildings for students and staff. These bins are organized into a three-compartment system for plastic-glass-metal, paper, and other waste, with additional battery recycling bins at building entrances. A color-coded bag system is also implemented, with paper waste collected in blue bags, plastic-glass-metal waste in yellow bags, and general waste in dark gray bags, in accordance with the Zero Waste Regulation.
Recyclable waste collected on campus is delivered to licensed recycling companies through arrangements with the local municipality, while general municipal waste is managed by municipal services. These waste separation and recycling practices contribute to preventing pollution from reaching surrounding water bodies, protecting aquatic ecosystems, and promoting sustainable resource management across the university.
