Goal 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation calls for ensuring universal access to safe and affordable drinking water, adequate sanitation, and hygiene for all by 2030. Doğuş University supports this goal through sustainable campus operations and environmental research. 

• Water Conservation on Campus: The university implements water-saving measures across its campuses. Restrooms and laboratories are fitted with efficient fixtures (such as low-flow faucets and dual-flush toilets) to minimize water waste. Landscaping at the campus uses drought-tolerant plants and drip irrigation, reducing irrigation water usage. These practices reflect SDG 6’s aim of responsible water use and demonstrate to students the importance of conservation. 

• Clean Drinking Water: DOU ensures access to clean drinking water for its community. Water fountains and dispensers are available, and the university regularly tests its water quality to meet health standards. By providing free, safe drinking water on campus, Doğuş reduces dependence on single-use plastic bottles and supports Goal 6’s hygiene and health targets. 

• Education and Awareness: Environmental science courses and student clubs cover water issues such as global water scarcity, pollution, and wastewater management. The Environment and Sustainable Life Club has hosted guest talks on topics like protecting Istanbul’s waterways and organized awareness campaigns (e.g. poster drives on saving water). Through these activities, students learn about the importance of clean water and are encouraged to act, such as fixing leaks in campus residences or participating in river clean-ups. 

• Research and Projects Highlights: 

  • TÜBİTAK Sanitation Project: Doğuş University engineers have worked on TÜBİTAK-supported solutions for water treatment. One project developed a compact graywater recycling system for campus use, reclaiming water from sinks for toilet flushing. This initiative, aligned with SDG 6, demonstrated a 30% reduction in freshwater demand in pilot tests. It illustrates how DOU’s applied research and campus as a “living lab” contribute to water conservation in practice. 

  • In line with SDG 6, Doğuş University researchers are investigating solutions to water and sanitation challenges. Projects include improving wastewater treatment techniques and designing rainwater collection systems for urban buildings. The university’s “Climate Action Plan Commission” and “Zero Waste Commission” addresses water as part of sustainability, identifying issues and proposing solutions for water management in industry and communities. Doğuş contributes to securing clean water resources for future generations by leveraging technology and innovation 

  • Selected Sample Publications: 

    • Water Quality Engineering Research: “Multi-objective optimization of a pond aeration system using Taguchi-based gray relational analysis” (2025) – E. Arıcı, M.C. Tuna, A. Aytaç, G.T. Keleştemur. This study designed an aeration system to improve oxygen levels in ponds with minimal energy use. The optimized system can enhance wastewater treatment and aquaculture water quality, advancing SDG 6 by providing cleaner water with efficient technology. 

    • Medical Hydration Study: “The Effect of Oral Water and Ice Popsicle Exposure on the Management of Thirst in the Immediate Postoperative Period” (2025) – E. Eren and S.D. Öztekin. DOU nursing researchers found that simple water and ice interventions significantly reduced post-surgery thirst discomfort. This healthcare study, addressing patient hydration (a basic need), underscores SDG 6’s link to well-being and hygiene in clinical settings.