Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University Farabi Campus 2023 Carbon Footprint Analysis and Sustainable Solution Proposals

The reduction of emissions and reaching carbon neutrality are implemented by various organisations, institutions, countries, and other associations on national and international levels. Universities are central to promoting sustainability and modelling low-carbon practices. This study assesses the 2023 carbon footprint (CF) of Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit University’s Farabi Campus, aiming to quantify its greenhouse-gas impacts, highlight mitigation opportunities and encourage more prudent resource use. Emissions from natural gas, electricity, water and campus-fleet vehicles were estimated using IPCC and UK DEFRA factors. Total emissions reached 2 361.24 t CO₂e (IPCC) and 1 697.35 t CO₂e (DEFRA); the per-person CF, calculated for all staff as of December 2023, provides an additional benchmark. Interpreting these results clarifies current impacts and helps prioritise actions needed to meet the university’s carbon-neutral ambitions. Recommended measures—such as improving energy efficiency, adopting sustainable transport, and strengthening waste-management and offset programmes—offer a practical roadmap for reducing emissions and advancing campus sustainability. The results of the study provide important information for the campus management as a basic guide to determine the steps to be taken for a carbon-neutral campus. In this context, recommendations such as energy efficiency measures, sustainable transportation policies, waste management strategies, etc. contribute to a sustainable future for the campus