Recognizing the capacity of higher education instutions to directly contribute to their communities through education, research, and social responsibility initiatives, Istinye University also embraces its role dedicated to sustainability. Guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the Institutional Sustainability Framework of ISU engages both internal and external stakeholders in pursuing an integrated model of sustainable development. This model encompasses not only environmental sustainability and social responsibility but also economic, cultural, and governance dimensions. The framework is shaped by the following principles:
- Accessible and Clear: The sustainability framework is designed to be accessible and clear which helps it to be embraced at every level for all members of the ISU community.
- Inclusive: All sustainability efforts are inclusive within the ISU Institutional Sustainability Framework, aligning with ongoing initiatives. The framework encompasses everyone and every activity related to sustainability at ISU, regardless of the scale or type of the activity.
- Reflecting Shared Practices: By sharing both positive and challenging experiences, ISU aims to set an example that is accessible for other higher education institutions in Turkey and beyond.
Within these guiding principles, the goals of the ISU Institutional Sustainability Framework evolves around under four key themes:
Informed Community on Campus The ISU community includes students, faculty, administrative staff, and service providers on campus. The goal is for each group to develop a primary understanding of sustainability. This objective is supported by the different segments of Education, Research, Infrastructure and Operations, and Social Responsibility, both individually and collectively. The campus serves as a learning hub for various learning techniques, such as experiential learning, active and passive learning, and hands-on activities, aiming to convey these competencies to society as well.
Well-being for All Increased quality of life is central to ISU's Institutional Sustainability Framework and is a core objective for the entire ISU community. This commitment to well-being extends beyond the ISU community to encompass its entire ecosystem, addressing especially subjective and relational wellbeing.
Creating the Culture of Sustainability While the activities on SDGs comply the legislative context, ISU is keen to create a sustainability culture beyond the legislative context. Adopting globally recognized good practices serves as a concrete roadmap to achieve this goal.
Collective Participatory Approach Efforts to promote sustainability is a shared common endeavor of the ISU community. These initiatives are encouraged in a guiding, collective and participatory way.