Waste Management at Dokuz Eylul University

Waste management is one of the core components of Dokuz Eylül University’s sustainability strategy. The University implements an integrated waste management system across all campuses in accordance with the Turkish Zero Waste Regulation and circular economy principles. Rather than focusing only on waste collection, DEU prioritizes waste prevention, resource efficiency, reuse, recycling, recovery, awareness, and continuous improvement. Through coordinated efforts involving students, academic staff, administrative personnel, and licensed waste management companies, sustainable waste practices have become part of daily campus life.

A major milestone was achieved during the 2025–2026 reporting period with the successful renewal of the Zero Waste Certificates for all 15 campuses. The renewal process included comprehensive inspections, staff training, infrastructure improvements, and reviews of waste management practices. These certifications demonstrate that the University’s waste management system complies with national legislation while continuously improving its environmental performance.

Building a Culture of Waste Prevention

Dokuz Eylül University believes that the most sustainable waste is the waste that is never generated. For this reason, numerous initiatives have been introduced to reduce waste generation before collection and disposal become necessary.

The University has significantly reduced paper consumption by digitalizing administrative and academic processes. BELGENET, the electronic document management system, has almost eliminated paper-based correspondence throughout the University. Similarly, the SAKAI Learning Management System enables lecturers to share course materials, collect assignments, and communicate with students electronically. Graduate theses are submitted digitally, reducing the need for printed copies.

Paper-saving practices are further supported through double-sided printing, controlled poster production, and digital approval procedures. In addition, reverse vending machines encourage recycling while the “Bring Your Thermos” campaign promotes the reduction of single-use beverage cups among students and staff.

Recycling and Circular Resource Management

Separate collection systems for paper, plastic, glass, metal, electronic waste, batteries, and other recyclable materials are available across all campuses. Clearly labelled recycling bins are located in academic buildings, administrative offices, laboratories, social facilities, and outdoor areas, making recycling accessible to the entire university community.

Since 2025, recyclable waste has been collected through a single licensed contractor, providing standardized collection procedures, improved traceability, and more reliable waste records. During the May 2025–April 2026 reporting period, the University separately collected:

• 280,551 tons of paper waste
• 66,493 tons of plastic waste
• 410,915 tons of inorganic recyclable waste

All recyclable materials are transferred to licensed recycling facilities, where they re-enter production processes as secondary raw materials, contributing to the circular economy and reducing the consumption of virgin resources.

Organic Waste Recovery

Organic waste generated in university kitchens, cafeterias, and dining halls is managed through a prevention-first approach. A smart meal reservation system linked to university identification cards enables more accurate meal planning, helping reduce unnecessary food preparation and food waste.

Organic waste that cannot be prevented is collected separately and treated in the University’s composting facility. During the reporting period, approximately 22.5 tonnes of organic waste were generated, while 8.3 tonnes were processed into compost. The resulting compost is reused in campus landscaping and green area maintenance, creating a closed-loop system for biodegradable waste.

In addition, suitable food leftovers are reused through voluntary animal feeding initiatives organized by students and staff.

Hazardous Waste and Environmental Safety

Special attention is given to hazardous waste generated by laboratories, healthcare facilities, maintenance workshops, and research activities. Hazardous wastes such as laboratory chemicals, waste oils, fluorescent lamps, batteries, contaminated packaging, toner cartridges, and electronic components are separated at source, labelled according to national waste codes, and stored in secure temporary storage facilities.

During the reporting period, 44,064 kg of hazardous waste was transferred to licensed treatment facilities through the Ministry’s Mobile Waste Tracking System (MOTAT), ensuring complete traceability and full legal compliance. Medical waste generated primarily by the University Hospital is managed through a separate collection and treatment system.

Contributing to Sustainable Development Goals

The University’s waste management system goes beyond regulatory compliance by supporting multiple Sustainable Development Goals. Waste prevention, recycling, composting, hazardous waste control, wastewater management, and digital monitoring systems contribute to healthier campuses, cleaner cities, responsible resource consumption, climate action, and environmental protection.

Through education, infrastructure investments, and continuous improvement, Dokuz Eylül University continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainable campus management and the transition towards a circular economy.