The Sustainability Office of Maltepe University participated in the “Climate and Youth Workshop on the Road to COP31”, organized through the collaboration of the Sustainable Living School (SYO), Marmara University Sustainability Coordination Office, Borusan, and various civil society organizations. The event was held on 21 May 2026 at the Campus of Marmara University.
Representing Maltepe University, Dr. Mert Tolon, Sustainability Office Coordinator and Vice Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, attended the workshop together with a group of students from different academic disciplines. The event brought together university students, academics, public sector representatives, civil society organizations, and sustainability professionals to discuss the role of youth in climate action and the preparations leading to COP31.
During the workshop, participants examined global and national climate policies, sustainable development goals, youth engagement in environmental governance, and strategies for strengthening climate resilience. Panel sessions featured distinguished speakers from national institutions, international organizations, and the private sector, who shared their experiences regarding climate governance, adaptation policies, carbon reduction strategies, and sustainable development initiatives.
As part of the workshop activities, students engaged in interactive discussions and collaborative sessions focusing on climate change mitigation, adaptation measures, sustainable lifestyles, green transformation, and youth-led environmental initiatives. The event provided a valuable platform for exchanging ideas and developing innovative approaches to addressing climate-related challenges.
Representing Maltepe University, the following students actively participated in the workshop:
- Emre Ay – Department of Industrial Engineering
- Göknur Uncu – Department of Industrial Engineering
- Baran Gündüz – Department of Yacht and Ship Design
- Işık Doğa Arpa – Computer Programming Program
Their participation contributed to interdisciplinary discussions on sustainability and highlighted the importance of empowering young people to take an active role in climate action and sustainable development processes. Throughout the event, it was emphasized that achieving climate goals requires strong cooperation among universities, local governments, businesses, civil society organizations, and youth communities. Particular attention was given to the critical role of young people in shaping future climate policies and accelerating the transition toward a low-carbon and climate-resilient society.
As Maltepe University, we remain committed to supporting sustainability-oriented educational activities, encouraging student participation in national and international sustainability initiatives, and contributing to climate action efforts through research, education, and stakeholder collaboration. We extend our sincere appreciation to the organizers, speakers, partner institutions, and all participants who contributed to the successful realization of this meaningful event.
