Disposable Item Use Minimisation Policy
Sakarya University implements a comprehensive institutional policy to minimise the use of disposable materials across all campuses as part of its Zero Waste Management System and overarching Sustainability Strategy. The policy is coordinated by the Zero Waste Coordinatorship under the Sustainability Commission and implemented within the framework of the Sakarya University Zero Waste Directive and Türkiye’s Zero Waste Regulation. Its emphasis on waste prevention, reuse and resource efficiency supports the objectives of the National Circular Economy Strategy and Action Plan (2025-2028) and Türkiye’s broader green development objectives and 2053 net-zero emissions target.
The University prioritises waste prevention at source and the use of durable, reusable products in place of disposable items. Porcelain plates and metal cutlery are used in meal services, while reusable cups, mugs and thermoses are promoted in cafeterias, canteens and tea stations. These practices reduce demand for disposable tableware and beverage containers and integrate reuse into daily campus operations.
Disposable-item reduction is incorporated into procurement and service management practices. Purchasing procedures and service contracts include requirements supporting the reduction of single-use materials and preference for reusable products. These provisions extend waste prevention principles to suppliers and service providers and support consistent implementation in campus services.
To further reduce disposable consumption, the use of refillable water stations and drinking fountains across all campuses is encouraged, aiming to decrease reliance on bottled water and single-use cups. The University also promotes the use of personal thermoses, mugs, and reusable bottles by offering discounts in canteens and cafés, fostering sustainable daily habits among students and staff. During institutional events and academic ceremonies, reusable tableware, eco-friendly decorations, and university-branded cloth bags are preferred instead of single-use plastic or paper items.
Procurement and supply processes prioritise durability, reusability and extended product life, alongside reduced packaging requirements. Suppliers are encouraged to provide environmentally friendly, concentrated cleaning products that minimise container use and plastic packaging waste. Reusable bags and service materials support resource-efficient operations. Where disposable products remain necessary, preference is given to suitable alternatives with reduced material and packaging requirements.
Educational and awareness activities reinforce these operational measures. The Zero Waste Coordinatorship and the Department of Environmental Engineering organise regular seminars, training sessions, and student campaigns on sustainable consumption, zero waste management, and behavioural change related to disposable materials. Student organisations host reuse-themed competitions and repair and redesign workshops, transforming theoretical sustainability concepts into practical community engagement. In 2025, the University reinforced reusable-product awareness through its April and May recycling campaigns. Students and staff who returned the highest quantities of beverage packaging through campus deposit-return machines received reusable thermoses. These incentives linked packaging recovery with the promotion of reusable drinkware as an alternative to disposable cups.
Implementation is monitored through the review of reusable-product practices, refill facilities, waste collection equipment and awareness activities. Waste quantities and transfer information are systematically recorded through the Zero Waste Information System within the Integrated Environmental Information System, operated by Türkiye’s Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change. Institutional weighing records and waste delivery documentation support the traceability of waste types, quantities and destinations. These data are incorporated into the University’s annual Sustainability Reports and reviewed by the Sustainability Commission to evaluate performance. All campuses hold Zero Waste Certificates, supporting the institution-wide implementation of waste prevention, separate collection and resource recovery practices. The Zero Waste Coordinatorship maintains continuity through staff and student information activities, operational monitoring and improvements identified through needs assessments.
Internal audits are conducted annually to ensure compliance with both the Zero Waste Regulation and ISO 14001 Environmental Management Principles. Preparatory work is underway to achieve full ISO 14001 certification, further embedding continuous environmental improvement into institutional operations.
Through the systematic reduction of disposable materials, the promotion of reusable and biodegradable alternatives, and the integration of measurable reporting mechanisms, Sakarya University demonstrates a strong and verifiable commitment to sustainable consumption and waste minimisation.
This policy demonstrates the University’s strong commitment to circular resource management and directly contributes to SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and SDG 13: Climate Action.
