Electronic Waste Management through the 3R Process at Özyeğin University

At Özyeğin University, we have developed a comprehensive electronic waste management plan based on the 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) approach in alignment with environmental legislation and the ISO 14001 Environmental Management System Standard. Our commitment to responsible electronic waste management has earned us recognition, including a Zero Waste Certificate, making us a pioneering institution among Turkish universities.

1. Awareness and Training: 
One of our fundamental principles is to raise awareness among all stakeholders. We regularly conduct training sessions and announcements to educate students, faculty, administrative staff, and the entire university community about the importance of responsible electronic waste management. These initiatives emphasize the significance of the 3R approach in reducing our environmental footprint.Our Health, Safety and Environment Office provides this education every year for each intake of students and staff.

2. Electronic Devices Usage: 
We provide laptops to all our academicians and administrative staff, totaling 502 faculty and 350 administrative staff members. To reduce electronic waste, we operate on a 6-year laptop replacement cycle. When laptops are replaced, their old components, such as RAM, monitors, switchboards, keyboards, servers, modems, and adapters, are carefully evaluated for reusability. This practice not only minimizes electronic waste but also results in substantial cost savings.

In 2022, we retired 146 computers, and 144 of these were repurposed and found new uses. This approach not only minimizes electronic waste but also contributes a significant financial value of 150,000 Turkish Lira.
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3. Collection and Recycling: 
Electronic waste generated within the university is collected and managed by our Information Technology Unit. We work with contracted recycling companies to ensure that electronic waste is responsibly processed and recycled in accordance with environmental regulations.

4. Specialized Collection Bins: 
To facilitate the proper disposal of electronic waste among our students and staff, we have placed electronic waste bins in strategic locations on campus, such as the service area and in front of the dormitories. These bins are designed to collect small quantities of electronic waste, making it easy for our community members to participate in responsible disposal practices.

5. Certification and Compliance: 
Our electronic waste management plan adheres to the ISO 14001 Environmental Management System Standard, ensuring that our processes align with internationally recognized environmental management practices. Additionally, we have been awarded a Zero Waste Certificate, highlighting our commitment to waste minimization and responsible disposal.

6. Continuous Improvement: 
We continuously monitor and evaluate our electronic waste management plan through internal and external audits to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with environmental legislation. As part of our commitment to sustainability, we submit our Industrial Waste Management Plan to the Provincial Directorate of Environment.

At Özyeğin University, we take pride in being at the forefront of responsible electronic waste management, setting an example for other educational institutions in Turkey. Our dedication to the 3R approach reflects our commitment to reducing our environmental impact, reusing valuable resources, and recycling electronic waste to contribute to a sustainable future.