Sustainability

SDG 6.2 Water consumption per person

SDG 6.2.1 Water consumption tracking

SDG 6.2.2 Water consumption per person

Total water consumption in 2024: 179,926 m³ (for 2024)

Total campus population: 14,004 (for 2024)

Per capita water consumption: 12.848 m³ (for 2024)

SDG 6.3 Water usage and care

SDG 6.3.1 Wastewater treatment

At Istanbul Okan University, separate sewage systems are available in all buildings for wastewater and clean water (rainwater). Our university operates a water treatment system to prevent contaminated and wastewater from mixing with the environment. Domestic wastewater is treated through five biological treatment units with a daily capacity of 200 m³.

• Rainwater Management: Rainwater is collected from building rooftops and directed to local ponds and channels surrounding the buildings.
• Recycling and Irrigation: The university has balancing pools where treated water and collected rainwater are stored; these waters are used for irrigating campus greenery.
• Wastewater Management: A separate wastewater sewage system directs contaminated water from the campus to the municipal sewage infrastructure.
• Surface Absorption: A portion of the rainwater from roads, parking lots, and other surfaces is absorbed into the soil through permeable surfaces. Water collected in channels is directed to campus ponds for storage and reuse.

This system ensures efficient water management, reduces rainwater runoff, supports sustainable irrigation, and contributes to the University’s green and sustainable campus practices.

Treated water is provided free of charge in student cafeterias, canteens, dining halls, and shared drinking water dispensers.

SDG 6.3.4. Water-conscious building standards

Istanbul Okan University manages the water resources on its campuses using digital monitoring and reporting tools. Water consumption is measured through digital meters and recorded in a central system. This system enables monthly and annual reporting, and also provides building-level and campus-level data, allowing the university to identify inefficiencies and implement water-saving measures.SDG 6.3.2 Preventing water system pollution

Istanbul Okan University uses Arsimak packaged biological wastewater treatment systems across the campus. These systems biologically treat domestic wastewater collected from university facilities and make it suitable for reuse. The university’s daily wastewater load is processed through these systems, significantly contributing to water conservation. The treated water is reused for landscape irrigation and campus maintenance, thereby reducing the demand for municipal water supply. This practice supports both the preservation of water resources and controlled wastewater management.

Process Flow:

Wastewater Inlet (Primary Sedimentation Tank)

• Domestic wastewater from the university enters the primary sedimentation tank.
• Large particles and settleable solids are separated here.

Equalization Tank

• Balances sudden fluctuations in flow rate and pollutant load.
• Ensures stable flow to the biological units.

Biological Reactor (Aeration / Blower Unit)

• Aeration is provided through blowers and diffusers.
• Microorganisms break down organic pollutants, enabling biological treatment.

Sedimentation Unit

• After biological treatment, water flows into the sedimentation tank.
• Activated sludge settles at the bottom, while treated water remains at the top.
• Sludge Return and Excess Sludge Removal
• A portion of the settled sludge is returned to the biological reactor.
• Excess sludge is directed to thickening and filter press units.

Disinfection Unit (Chlorination)

• Treated water is disinfected using a chlorine dosing pump.
• The effluent becomes safe for reuse or discharge.

Treated Water Outlet

• Clean and disinfected water is ready for reuse purposes such as irrigation or reservoir feed, or for safe discharge.

Sludge Dewatering Unit (Filter Press)

• Excess sludge is dewatered using a filter press.
• Solid sludge is disposed of, and the separated water is returned to the system.

Thanks to this system, environmentally friendly, sustainable, and circular water management is ensured throughout the campus. The university actively monitors and manages its water resources through regular inspections, maintenance activities, and safety protocols. These processes address potential pollution risks that may arise from accidents or incidents. These measures enable the rapid detection and elimination of contaminants, protecting the water system and supporting environmental safety standards.

SDG 6.3.3 Free drinking water provided

Treated water is provided free of charge in student cafeterias, canteens, dining halls, and shared drinking water dispensers.

SDG 6.3.4. Water-conscious building standards

Istanbul Okan University manages the water resources on its campuses using digital monitoring and reporting tools. Water consumption is measured through digital meters and recorded in a central system. This system enables monthly and annual reporting, and also provides building-level and campus-level data, allowing the university to identify inefficiencies and implement water-saving measures.

In addition, water-saving devices such as sensor-activated faucets and automatic shut-off taps are used throughout the campus. The collected data is analyzed annually, forming the basis of sustainability reports and guiding new water conservation strategies.

Additionally, students and staff are involved in the process through online awareness programs and digital dashboards that display water consumption trends across the university.

SDG 6.3.5. Water-conscious planting

Istanbul Okan University effectively utilizes the 104,430 m² of qualified open space located on the Tuzla Tepeören Campus for student projects and community education activities. An area of 75,000 m² is covered with vegetation suitable for water awareness, which corresponds to approximately 47% of the total campus area.

Rainwater and wastewater collected in the campus treatment facilities are processed and used for landscape irrigation. Drought-tolerant plants are partially planted in campus gardens. Pedestrian walkways and parking areas are covered with permeable grass pavers that allow rainwater to naturally infiltrate the soil. In addition, gutters and ponds are available to direct and manage rainwater.

SDG 6.4 Water reuse

SDG 6.4.1. Water reuse policy

Istanbul Okan University implements a policy aimed at maximizing water reuse across the campus. The university is committed to reducing water consumption and promoting efficient water use through strategies such as rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling. These initiatives are part of broader sustainability goals designed to minimize environmental impacts and support long-term water conservation efforts.

Sustainable Water Policy

SDG 6.4.2. Water reuse measurement

SDG 6.5 Water in the community

SDG 6.5.1. Water management educational opportunities

Istanbul Okan University provides educational opportunities to local communities on effective water management. Through workshops, seminars, and community-oriented programs, the university raises awareness and offers knowledge on sustainable water practices. These initiatives aim to equip the community with the skills and understanding needed to contribute to effective water management and conservation efforts.

Course Contents

SDG 6.5.3. Off-campus water conservation support

Istanbul Okan University supports water conservation efforts beyond the campus. The university participates in awareness programs, partnerships, and community initiatives that promote water-saving practices and highlight the importance of sustainable water use. Through research, educational activities, and collaborations with external stakeholders, the university contributes to water conservation efforts beyond its campus boundaries.

Company Collaborations

SDG 6.5.4. Sustainable water extraction on campus

Istanbul Okan University utilizes sustainable water extraction technologies in both on-campus and off-campus university-owned areas. By employing advanced methods such as groundwater management systems and sustainable extraction techniques, the university aims to minimize environmental impacts. This approach supports the university’s broader sustainability goals and helps protect local water ecosystems.

In our strategic plan, an environmental SWOT analysis was conducted, and the conservation of all natural resources has been encouraged to ensure efficient use and savings.

Strategic Plan

SDG 6.5.5. Cooperation on water security

Istanbul Okan University actively collaborates with local, regional, and national governments on water security initiatives. The university participates in research projects, policy development, and awareness programs aimed at promoting sustainable water management and addressing water security challenges. These partnerships are part of the university’s commitment to contributing to environmental sustainability and supporting community resilience

İSKİ Meeting

SDG 6.5.6. Promoting conscious water usage on campus

Istanbul Okan University actively promotes conscious water use on campus. Through various awareness campaigns, water-saving initiatives, and educational programs, the university encourages students, staff, and academic personnel to use water responsibly. In addition, water-saving signs and guidelines displayed throughout the campus serve as reminders of the importance of sustainable water consumption.

SDG 6.5.7. Promoting conscious water usage in the wider community

Istanbul Okan University actively promotes conscious water use within the wider community. The university organizes public campaigns, educational workshops, and collaborations with local organizations to raise public awareness. These efforts aim to foster a culture that supports sustainable water use and environmental responsibility.