What is "Climate Action"?
Yeditepe University demonstrates a strong institutional commitment to climate action, resilience, and sustainable environmental governance, implementing comprehensive policies that align with SDG 13 and national climate strategies. The University systematically monitors its energy footprint, reporting that 117,818 GJ of total energy was consumed in the reference period, 73,537 GJ of which came from low-carbon sources, supported by on-campus solar installations and solar-powered hot-water systems. Annual assessments ensure transparent monitoring of renewable energy performance and inform long-term reduction strategies.
As part of its public responsibility, the University regularly delivers educational programmes, campaigns, and awareness activities on climate change mitigation, adaptation, early-warning systems, and sustainable development. These include expert seminars such as “Sustainable Development and Climate Change,” collaborations with the Sustainability Working Group, and participation in international initiatives such as the UNICEF Climate Ambassadors Programme.
Yeditepe University plays an active role in local climate governance, contributing expert knowledge to the Kadıköy Municipality Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan (SECAP). Faculty members serve as academic contributors, supporting municipal adaptation planning, risk assessment, and integrated climate strategies. The University also advances co-operative planning on climate-related disasters through annual international conferences on migration, environmental displacement, and resilience—organised by the Center for Global Education and Cultural Studies (KEKAM)—bringing together government agencies, NGOs, and academia.
In partnership with municipalities and environmental NGOs such as the ÇEVKO Foundation, Yeditepe University provides scientific support for early-warning mechanisms, biodiversity protection, desertification prevention, and policy development. These collaborative efforts help local and regional authorities integrate research-driven insights into climate disaster preparedness and monitoring systems.
The University has set a clear institutional target to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, as outlined in its Energy Management Policy, consistent with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol. This roadmap prioritizes reducing energy demand, expanding renewable energy production, and strengthening data-driven carbon management. Annual GHG inventories and sustainability performance assessments ensure ongoing progress and accountability.
Through these integrated actions, Yeditepe University affirms its commitment to climate responsibility, local and global cooperation, and long-term environmental resilience in alignment with SDG 13 – Climate Action.
