Sakarya University is committed to maintaining the ecological integrity of local aquatic ecosystems by minimizing physical, chemical, and biological disturbances through sustainable environmental management, scientific monitoring, and community engagement. Located near Sapanca Lake, one of the region's most important freshwater resources, the university supports the protection of aquatic biodiversity and water quality through institutional practices and cooperation with regional stakeholders.
In accordance with the Water Pollution Control Regulation, Sakarya University implements environmental management measures designed to prevent pollutants from entering surrounding water bodies. Through its Zero Waste Management System, the university promotes waste separation, recycling, composting, and the responsible management of hazardous and medical waste. Campus wastewater is collected through a closed sewerage system and directed to municipal wastewater treatment facilities in accordance with local environmental regulations. These practices contribute to preventing land-based pollution and protecting the surrounding freshwater ecosystems.
An important component of regional ecosystem protection is the continuous monitoring of Sapanca Lake. Sakarya University maintains institutional engagement with the Sakarya Water and Sewerage Administration (SASKİ), which conducts regular water quality assessments to monitor the condition of this vital freshwater resource. According to SASKİ's 2025 monitoring activities, water samples are collected monthly from 10 different locations across Sapanca Lake, covering surface, intermediate, and bottom water layers, with a total of 31 samples analyzed each month. These assessments provide information on water quality conditions and support the identification of environmental changes that may affect aquatic ecosystem health.
Figure 1. SASKİ research boat used for routine water quality monitoring and sampling activities in Sapanca Lake.
The university also contributes to the scientific assessment of freshwater ecosystems through studies of aquatic biodiversity and ecological indicators. Research led by Prof. Dr. Tuğba Ongun Sevindik has examined diatom communities and their responses to environmental conditions in lakes and rivers. In particular, the study “Using diatom indices to estimate the ecological status of minimally disturbed rivers of the Sakarya River Basin (Türkiye)”, published in Ecohydrology, provides a scientific basis for evaluating river ecosystem health through biological indicators. Such research strengthens the understanding of aquatic ecosystem conditions and supports scientifically informed watershed management.
Beyond scientific monitoring, Sakarya University encourages active participation in the protection of local aquatic habitats through community-based environmental initiatives. In cooperation with local organizations, university students have participated in shoreline and environmental clean-up activities around Sapanca Lake. One documented activity conducted with the participation of Sakarya University students and the İlim Yayma Cemiyeti resulted in the collection of 180 kg of waste, including plastic, glass, and metal materials, from the lake's surroundings. These activities contribute to reducing litter pollution, protecting aquatic habitats, and fostering environmental responsibility among students and local communities.
Figure 2. Community-based shoreline clean-up activities around Sapanca Lake involving university students and local stakeholders.
Regional conservation efforts continued throughout 2025 as water scarcity and declining lake levels increased the importance of ecosystem protection. In November 2025, SASKİ carried out shoreline conservation and clean-up activities across approximately 4 kilometres of the Sapanca Lake shoreline, removing plastic, glass, and metal waste while managing excessive reed growth in areas where water circulation had become restricted. These regional activities complement the university's scientific and environmental engagement and demonstrate the importance of coordinated approaches to maintaining freshwater ecosystem health.
Figure 3. Collection and removal of litter from the shoreline and surrounding areas of Sapanca Lake to support aquatic ecosystem protection.
Through its environmental management practices, scientific contributions, institutional engagement, and community-based conservation activities, Sakarya University supports the long-term protection of local aquatic ecosystems. By connecting ecological knowledge with responsible environmental practices and regional cooperation, the university contributes to SDG 14: Life Below Water, promoting healthier freshwater habitats, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable watershed management.
