Bilkent University hosted its annual Zero Waste Festival during the week of April 9–17. The festival began with a series of seminars on April 9 and continued with an outdoor event on April 17 at the Spring Festival area.
Rector Kürşat Aydoğan made the opening speech of the festival. He said, “As one of the few universities in Türkiye awarded the Best Zero Waste Implementation Award, we have a mission to act as an institution striving to leave behind a more livable world for future generations.”
He continued, “Sustainability is no longer a choice but an urgent necessity. The climate crisis, resource depletion and environmental degradation are forcing all of us to take action. As a leading academic institution, Bilkent University has a duty to lead sustainable practices, raise awareness and inspire change.”
The event included sports activities, environmental talks, student artwork displays and zero-waste workshops. Radio Bilkent broadcasted live from the festival area. Chef Özge Şahin conducted a workshop where participants learned how to make food and juice from waste. Sculptor Doğan Karakılıç created an artwork using scrap musical materials in a live performance.
The festival area had corners for the exchange and donation of educational materials, a book swap area and collection bins for gently used clothing. Free water, tea and coffee were provided to participants who brought their own bottles or mugs.
A ceremony was held to recognize the students who participated in the Zero Waste Logo Competition.