Water-conscious building standards

Karadeniz Technical University (KTU), in line with SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, implements a comprehensive set of conservation measures under its Water Conservation Directive to ensure the efficient, effective, and sustainable use of water across campus.

In this context, transmission lines and in-building water installations are regularly monitored, with preventive actions taken to stop leakages and early interventions made in case of possible malfunctions. In unused buildings and sections, main valves are shut off with safety precautions to avoid unnecessary consumption. Additionally, taps left open after working hours are checked and closed, reducing water waste through simple yet effective measures.

The University also adopts conservation principles in irrigation of gardens and park areas: watering is scheduled for morning and evening hours when evaporation is lowest, technically efficient methods are preferred, and automation systems are used. During renovations, traditional taps are systematically replaced with easy-to-use, aerated, low-flow, or sensor-operated faucets to further reduce consumption.

Furthermore, KTU is developing infrastructure for rainwater harvesting, enabling rainwater collected from roofs and hard surfaces such as parking areas to be reused for garden and lawn irrigation—minimizing reliance on municipal water.

Through these practices, Karadeniz Technical University demonstrates its commitment to protecting water resources, preventing waste, and strengthening sustainable campus management, while reflecting an environmentally responsible institutional approach. (Directive link)