Competition Content

This competition aims to design a recycling station that collects and separates different types of waste, to be used across the Bahçeşehir University campuses. The main objective is to create an innovative, functional, and aesthetically strong recycling station in line with sustainability principles, thereby encouraging recycling habits within the university.

WHY RECYCLING?

Recycling helps reduce environmental pollution by conserving natural resources and serves as a crucial step toward a sustainable future. Reprocessing waste materials within the recycling cycle saves energy and reduces the need for new raw materials, thus contributing to the protection of ecosystems. Moreover, improving the efficiency of recycling processes decreases the amount of non-recyclable waste, reduces environmental burden, and plays an important role in protecting human health. In this context, developing recycling habits among individuals is essential, and well-designed recycling stations that promote recycling are key elements in increasing the effectiveness of this process.

This competition aims to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and Goal 13: Climate Action. Designs that improve waste management and promote recycling support the efficient use of natural resources and environmental sustainability. Additionally, by fostering a recycling culture within the university, the competition also contributes to Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. Through this initiative, the designs developed are expected to enhance both individual awareness and institutional sustainability practices.

PROGRAM

Participants are expected to design a sustainable, functional, innovative, and aesthetically appealing recycling station that can adapt to various spaces within Bahçeşehir University campuses and allow for the collection of different types of recyclable waste. The proposed recycling station should encourage recycling behavior. It must be user-friendly, durable, and compatible with the campus environment. Designs should provide a solution for properly separating materials such as glass, metal, paper, and other recyclable waste.

The design should be based on fundamental design principles, interact with its surroundings, and guide users clearly on where to dispose of each type of waste.

Participants should consider the following design principles:

• Balance: The design should be visually and structurally balanced.
• Emphasis: Eye-catching elements should guide the waste separation process.
• Hierarchy: A clear and understandable structure should direct users.
• Proportion & Scale: Appropriate dimensions should ensure ease of use.
• Repetition & Rhythm: Consistent visual elements should guide users.
• Contrast: Differences in form, color, and texture should enhance waste separation.
• Unity & Harmony: The design should be cohesive and compatible with its environment.

USERS
Students, staff, and visitors.

DIMENSIONS
No strict size limitations are imposed; however, human ergonomics must be considered.

STRUCTURAL SYSTEM
The structure must be free-standing and should not be fixed to any wall or floor surface. Even if flexible components are proposed, the structure must remain safe and stable.

MATERIALS
Fiberboard and particleboard panels produced from wood or industrial wood waste will be used. These materials add value to waste by facilitating its repurposing. Additional connecting elements, recycled cardboard, textiles, and similar materials may also be used.

One of the key principles of sustainable forest management is utilizing forest waste—such as fallen branches or standing dead trees—by reintegrating them into the economy. Fiberboard and particleboard production uses such forest waste as raw material. Including these materials in the competition aims to raise awareness among participants about sustainable forest management.