Sustainability literacy is essential as it equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to address the pressing environmental, social, and economic challenges we face. It helps people understand how their choices impact the world around them and encourages actions that promote resource conservation, waste reduction, social equity, and climate action. Sustainability literacy also supports clean water, affordable energy, sustainable cities, decent work, and responsible consumption. It plays a key role in tackling issues like poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation, while fostering innovation, peace, and strong institutions, and promoting global partnerships for a more sustainable and responsible future for all.
According to the statistical data we have gathered, 1,109 out of the 1,843 graduates in 2024 successfully completed courses related to environmental and sustainability studies. This represents an impressive 60.17% of the total graduates in 2024, showcasing a strong commitment to addressing global challenges. This significant participation highlights the growing awareness and importance of sustainability among our students, reflecting a positive trend toward environmental responsibility and sustainable practices in life.
Finally, the responses from students in the General Satisfaction Survey (GSS) suggest that they are aware of the university’s sustainability policies and are generally satisfied with them. The survey explores various aspects of sustainability practices and student perceptions.
Specifically, 67.21% of students express satisfaction with the university’s eco-friendly initiatives, while 71.81% feel that sustainability education and awareness programs are adequate. Additionally, 53.34% of students would like the university to place more emphasis on environmentally-friendly policies.
These results indicate a positive reception toward the university’s sustainability efforts, with many students expressing a desire for further improvements or greater focus on environmental policies.
To assess the sustainability literacy of students enrolled in the Environment and Sustainable Development course, a literacy test is administered at the end of the course. This test is separate from the course grading and serves as an additional measure of students’ understanding of sustainability concepts. Certificates are awarded to those who perform well on the test.
In a similar context, students enrolled in various corporate social responsibility courses such as, Occupational Safety and Health; Human Rights; Sociology and Ethics in Profession are entitled to receive certificate about social sustainability by a literacy test that is administered at the end of the courses. ( See related courses below )
In the framework of sustainability policies, our university provides mandatory certified training separately for academic and administrative staff. These training sessions are designed to enhance knowledge and awareness of sustainability practices specific to each group’s role. Following the training, a test is conducted to evaluate participants’ understanding, and certificates are awarded to those who successfully pass. These training sessions are held at least once a year to ensure continuous improvement. This initiative aims to ensure that all staff are well-equipped to contribute to the university’s sustainability goals. These trainings are structured around two key disciplines Environmental Aspects of Sustainability and Social Aspects of Sustainability to deepen awareness of global sustainability. Moreover, the Ethical Compliance Office (ECO) in EUL is responsible to organize annual training for all levels of the organization. This approach provides a comprehensive understanding of sustainability from ecological, social and environmental perspectives, equipping staff to tackle the complex challenges of sustainable development worldwide.
CFE202 – Environment and Sustainable Development
OSS202 – Çevre ve Sürdürülebilirlik
CTE401 – Occupational Safety and Health
CFE204 – Human Rights
COM115 – Sociology
COM204 – Ethics in Profession