Think Before You Throw Out
SEC 180 course, “Sustainable Campus Practices,” was launched in 2023 to mobilize university members in the fight against climate change and encourage sustainable actions on campus. As part of this initiative, Research Action Teams were created, comprising students, faculty, and staff members and suppliers who collaboratively work on specific sustainability challenges identified within the university. Each team participates in a series of workshops, where they delve into their chosen topic, develop actionable strategies, and promote them to engage the entire university community in this transformative process. Group 5, which focused on reducing food waste, designed an awareness program and installed designated food waste bins in various campus locations to encourage proper disposal and recycling of food waste. Informational flyers were placed strategically around campus to educate students about these new recycling stations and the significant impact using them can have on reducing landfill waste. Their efforts proved effective, with active participation rising from 20% to 55%. By embedding these initiatives into daily campus life, Özyeğin University fosters a culture of sustainability, empowering students and staff to contribute directly to the university’s environmental goals.