Sustainability

SDG 13.2 Low-carbon energy use

Istanbul Okan University prioritizes sustainability and energy efficiency across all its campuses. Energy-efficient devices and systems are widely used in both academic and administrative buildings.

• Lighting: LED lighting systems are used in new buildings and renovated areas, thereby reducing overall electricity consumption.
• HVAC Systems: Energy-efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units are preferred, with automation systems minimizing unnecessary energy use.
• Laboratory and Office Equipment: Energy Star-certified products are used for printers, computers, and laboratory devices, leds.
• Water and Energy-Saving Equipment: Sensor-operated faucets and low-energy pumps reduce both water and energy waste.
• Paper Usage: Hand dryers are installed in restrooms to minimize paper consumption.
• Renewable Energy Integration: Solar panels and a wind turbine, along with other sustainable energy technologies, are utilized across all facilities.

Through these practices, the university continues to reduce its carbon footprint and support long-term energy management strategies.

Building Automation (B1, B2)

• B1 (Existence of Automation Systems): Indicates whether automation systems are present in the building. These systems automatically control various building functions, such as lighting, heating, cooling, and security.
• B2 (Effectiveness or Efficiency of Automation Systems): Refers to how efficiently the automation systems are working. For example, automation systems that provide energy savings are functioning effectively.

Security (S1, S2, S3, S4)

• S1 (Fire Safety): The building has security measures such as fire alarms, fire suppression systems, and emergency exit routes.
• S2 (Physical Security): The building has security systems used for safety, such as security cameras, access control systems, etc.
• S3 (Emergency Management): Preparation and management for emergencies, such as audible and visual alerts, safe evacuation routes, and emergency plans.
• S4 (Health and Safety Management): Includes hygiene management, the safety of layout plans, and health suitability.

Energy (E1, E2)

• E1 (Energy Efficiency): Energy-saving measures within the building, such as LED lighting, insulation, and low-energy devices.
• E2 (Use of Renewable Energy): The use of renewable energy systems, such as solar panels, wind turbines, etc.

Water (A1, A2)

• A1 (Water Conservation): Systems used to reduce water consumption, such as low-flow faucets and water filtration systems.
• A2 (Water Recycling Systems): Systems for the reuse of water, such as rainwater collection and greywater recycling, have been established, and trial runs are ongoing. It has not been marked because it is not fully operational yet.

Indoor Environment (I1, I2, I3, I4)

• I1 (Air Quality): The quality of indoor air, including the presence of ventilation systems, air filtration, and cleaning systems.
• I2 (Thermal Comfort): The efficiency of heating and cooling systems and the level of comfort regarding indoor temperature is managed.
• I3 (Sound Insulation and Acoustic Comfort): Sound insulation and acoustic arrangements inside the building, the noise level inside the building is partially managed.
• I4 (Light Quality): The use of natural light, artificial light levels, and the quality of lighting systems are at a good level.

Lighting (L1, L2, L3, L4)

• L1 (Energy-efficient Lighting): Energy-saving lighting systems, such as LED lights and motion-sensor lamps, are present.
• L2 (Use of Natural Light): The use of natural light in the building has been increased (windows, sunlight-based lighting, etc.).
• L3 (Lighting Level Adjustment): The lighting levels are adjusted according to local regulations (optimizing light levels in different areas) to some extent.
• L4 (Lighting Control Systems): There are lighting control systems such as automatic dimming, timers, and motion sensors.

Example of Energy Efficient Appliances Usage: (Istanbul Okan University, Türkiye)

SDG 13.2.1 Low carbon energy tracking

Istanbul Okan University measures the amount of low-carbon energy used across the entire university. In line with its sustainability commitment and its goal of reducing its carbon footprint, the university actively monitors energy consumption to assess the use of renewable and low-carbon energy sources. These data are used to inform energy management strategies and to support efforts aimed at further reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Solar Energy Monitoring (Istanbul Okan University, Türkiye)

There are two systems: solar panels and a wind turbine.

Carbon Footprint Report

SDG 13.2.2 Low-carbon energy use

Example of Roof Solar Panels (Istanbul Okan University, Turkiye)	Example of Wind Turbine (Istanbul Okan University, Turkiye)
Solar Energy Monitoring (Istanbul Okan University, Türkiye)

SDG 13.3 Environmental education measures

Copy of the Istanbul Okan University ISO50001 certification (Istanbul Okan University, Türkiye )

• ISO 5001 Certificate
• Sustainable Procurement Policy
• Sustainable Investment Policy
• Ethical Sourcing Policy

SDG 13.3.1 Local education programmes on climate

Istanbul Okan University offers local education programs and campaigns focused on climate change risks, impacts, mitigation, adaptation, and impact reduction. The university engages with students, academic staff, and the wider community by organizing workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns to promote understanding of climate change–related issues. These initiatives aim to educate and empower individuals to address climate change and its associated challenges.

Sustainability courses at Istanbul Okan University

Academic Programs:

• Mandatory course introduction to sustainability and other sustainability related courses

Research and Projects:

• Campus-scale renewable energy applications through the integration of solar panels and a wind turbine
• R&D studies on energy-efficient HVAC systems and automation solutions

Management and Campus Practices:

• Transition to LED lighting and use of Energy Star-certified devices
• Sensor-operated faucets and low-energy pump systems

Community Contribution and Collaboration:

• Climate change awareness campaigns organized by student clubs
• Renewable energy projects in collaboration with the industry

SDG 13.3.2 Climate Action Plan, shared

Istanbul Okan University has a Climate Action Plan that is shared with local authorities and community groups. This plan outlines the university’s strategies to reduce its carbon footprint, promote sustainability, and collaborate with external stakeholders to address climate-related challenges. This initiative reflects the university’s commitment to contributing to broader societal climate goals and supporting collective action.

• Istanbul Okan University Climate Action Plan
• Istanbul Climate Action Plan

SDG 13.3.3 Co-operative planning for climate change disasters

Istanbul Okan University participates in collaborative planning for climate change–related disasters, including those that lead to the displacement of people both domestically and across borders. The university works in cooperation with government agencies and relevant organizations to develop strategies and response plans for such emergencies, reflecting its commitment to addressing the human and social impacts of climate change. This collaboration helps ensure a coordinated and effective response to climate-related challenges and disasters.

YÖK Earthquake-Affected Student

SDG 13.3.4 Inform and support government

Istanbul Okan University informs and supports local and regional authorities on early warning and monitoring of climate change–related disaster risks. The university collaborates with authorities by sharing research, data, and expertise, contributing to enhanced community preparedness and response capacities. This cooperation supports the development of resilient local infrastructure and helps mitigate the impacts of climate-related disasters.

SDG 13.3.5 Environmental education collaborate with NGO

Istanbul Okan University collaborates with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to support climate change adaptation. The university partners with various NGOs to implement projects, share research, and develop strategies aimed at adapting to the impacts of climate change. These collaborations are part of the university’s commitment to promoting sustainability and supporting societal resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

• Sustainability Collaboration
• Sustainability Awareness Training Series

Examples of Sustainability-Related Activities (Istanbul Okan University, Türkiye)

SDG 13.4.1 Commitment to carbon neutral university

Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) has taken significant steps in combating climate change. Local governments came together at the C40 Mayors Summit held in Copenhagen to advance this goal. The Mayor of Istanbul, Ekrem İmamoğlu, along with other signatory leaders, signed the “Deadline 2020” Commitment. In line with this commitment, IMM has initiated actions to achieve the goal of making Istanbul a “resilient city” and a “carbon-neutral city” by 2050. As an integral part of Istanbul, our university is also included in these objectives.

Istanbul Okan University is committed to becoming a carbon-neutral institution in order to contribute globally to the fight against climate change. In line with this commitment, the university actively works to reduce carbon emissions across all sectors, including energy use, transportation, waste management, and consumed materials. Acting in parallel with Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality’s goal of becoming a carbon-neutral city by 2050, we acknowledge our responsibility to be a key actor in Istanbul’s environmental transformation.

Our efforts focus on integrating sustainable practices into campus operations, fostering a culture of sustainability among students and staff, and collaborating with stakeholders such as government bodies, non-governmental organizations, and the wider community. Through continuous innovation, research, and education, Istanbul Okan University aims to play an active role in ensuring a resilient and low-carbon future.

Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) has taken significant steps in combating climate change. Local governments came together at the C40 Mayors Summit held in Copenhagen to advance this objective. The Mayor of Istanbul, Ekrem İmamoğlu, along with other signatory leaders, signed the “Deadline 2020” Commitment. In line with this commitment, IMM has initiated actions aimed at achieving the goals of making Istanbul a “resilient city” and a “carbon-neutral city” by 2050. As an integral part of Istanbul, our university is also included within these goals.

Istanbul Okan University is committed to becoming a carbon-neutral institution in order to contribute globally to the fight against climate change. In line with this commitment, the university actively works to reduce carbon emissions across all sectors, including energy use, transportation, waste management, and consumed materials. Acting in parallel with Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality’s objective of becoming a carbon-neutral city by 2050, we acknowledge our responsibility to be a key actor in Istanbul’s environmental transformation.

Our efforts focus on integrating sustainable practices into campus operations, fostering a culture of sustainability among students and staff, and collaborating with stakeholders such as government bodies, non-governmental organizations, and the wider community. Through continuous innovation, research, and education, Istanbul Okan University aims to play an active role in ensuring a resilient and low-carbon future.