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15.3.1 - BAHÇEŞEHİR UNIVERSITY POLICY ON THE CONSERVATION, RESTORATION AND SUSTAINABLE USE OF TERRESTRIAL ECOSYSTEMS
Policy Area: Environmental Sustainability and
Terrestrial Ecosystem Management
Policy Date:2025
1. PURPOSE
Bahçeşehir University (BAU) recognizes the conservation, restoration and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems as an essential part of its institutional commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible land management.
This policy establishes a framework for maintaining the ecological integrity of terrestrial ecosystems associated with or affected by University operations, preventing land degradation, restoring disturbed environments and promoting the sustainable use of land and natural resources.
The policy addresses terrestrial ecosystems, including forests, mountain environments, drylands, agricultural landscapes and urban green spaces, wherever these are relevant to the University's activities. It supports the objectives of United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land, particularly the conservation and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainable forest management, land restoration and the prevention of land degradation.
2. SCOPE
This policy applies to terrestrial ecosystems located within, managed by or potentially affected by Bahçeşehir University's campuses, facilities, agricultural operations, research activities and other institutional operations.
The scope includes:
University campuses, gardens, landscaped areas, green spaces and associated terrestrial environments.
BAU Farm Natural Living Farm in Giresun, including hazelnut orchards, agricultural land, soil resources, natural vegetation and surrounding landscapes.
University-managed research, educational and fieldwork locations.
Forested areas and sites associated with University-supported tree planting, reforestation and ecological rehabilitation initiatives.
Mountain and dryland ecosystems where University operations, research or environmental initiatives have a relevant ecological connection.
Areas affected by construction, infrastructure development, landscaping, maintenance, agricultural activities and land-use changes.
Degraded or disturbed terrestrial environments associated with University activities and suitable for ecological restoration.
The policy addresses natural, semi-natural and agricultural ecosystems, with particular attention to land condition, soil health, vegetation cover, ecological functions and the long-term sustainability of terrestrial resources.
The policy applies to relevant University units and individuals acting on behalf of the University, including contractors undertaking University-commissioned activities.
3. FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES
Bahçeşehir University adopts the following principles in its approach to terrestrial ecosystem management.
3.1. Conservation of Existing Ecosystems
The University prioritizes the preservation of existing terrestrial ecosystems, vegetation cover, soil resources and ecological functions in areas associated with its operations.
3.2. Prevention of Land Degradation
Land management practices emphasize the prevention and minimization of soil erosion, vegetation loss, habitat fragmentation, soil compaction and other forms of ecosystem degradation.
3.3. Ecological Restoration
The policy promotes the restoration and rehabilitation of disturbed or degraded terrestrial environments, taking into account local ecological conditions and the long-term recovery of ecosystem functions.
3.4. Sustainable Land and Resource Use
The University promotes land-use and natural resource management practices that balance institutional needs with the long-term productivity, resilience and ecological sustainability of terrestrial ecosystems.
3.5. Precautionary and Science-Based Management
Decisions affecting terrestrial ecosystems take into account relevant scientific information, environmental conditions, potential ecological risks and the precautionary principle.
3.6. Institutional Responsibility and Collaboration
The conservation and sustainable management of terrestrial ecosystems form part of the responsibilities of relevant University units and encourage cooperation with public authorities, scientific institutions, local communities and environmental organizations.
4. CONSERVATION OF TERRESTRIAL ECOSYSTEMS
Bahçeşehir University integrates terrestrial ecosystem conservation into relevant land-use decisions, campus operations, agricultural activities and environmental management practices.
4.1. Conservation of Natural and Semi-Natural Areas
The University prioritizes the conservation of existing natural and semi-natural environments associated with its operations.
Land-use and operational decisions consider the protection of vegetation cover, soil resources, mature trees, ecological connectivity and the environmental functions of existing green spaces.
4.2. Forest Ecosystems and Tree Cover
The policy supports the conservation of forest ecosystems, existing tree cover and ecologically valuable wooded areas associated with University activities.
Relevant measures include:
Preventing unnecessary tree removal and vegetation loss.
Preserving existing mature trees and ecologically significant vegetation.
Supporting appropriate afforestation, reforestation and forest rehabilitation initiatives.
Selecting native or ecologically suitable tree species for planting activities.
Considering local ecological conditions and long-term vegetation survival.
Avoiding land management practices that contribute to forest degradation or fragmentation.
4.3. Mountain Ecosystems
Where University activities or projects are associated with mountain environments, the policy promotes the conservation of vegetation cover, soil stability, natural landscape characteristics and sensitive terrestrial environments.
Relevant measures emphasize the prevention of erosion, unnecessary land disturbance and degradation resulting from inappropriate land-use practices.
4.4. Dryland Ecosystems
Where University activities or projects are associated with dryland environments, the policy supports the protection of soil resources, natural vegetation and ecological functions.
Particular consideration is given to preventing land degradation, minimizing erosion, promoting responsible resource use and supporting practices that reduce the risk of desertification.
4.5. Soil Conservation and Land Protection
The University promotes the protection of soil as a fundamental resource supporting terrestrial ecosystem functions.
Relevant land management considerations include:
Prevention and reduction of soil erosion.
Protection of existing vegetation and ground cover.
Minimization of unnecessary soil disturbance and compaction.
Consideration of soil conditions in construction, landscaping and agricultural activities.
Prevention of avoidable soil contamination and degradation.
4.6. Biodiversity-Sensitive Green Space Management
Campus gardens, landscaped areas and other University-managed green spaces are maintained with consideration for their ecological value and contribution to terrestrial ecosystem health.
The policy encourages the preservation of existing vegetation, the use of native and locally suitable plants and the reduction of unnecessary disturbance to green spaces.
5. RESTORATION AND ECOLOGICAL REHABILITATION
Bahçeşehir University recognizes ecological restoration as an important approach to addressing land degradation and improving the condition of terrestrial environments associated with its activities.
5.1. Identification of Restoration Needs
The restoration framework provides for the identification of areas affected by vegetation loss, soil degradation, erosion, land disturbance or other environmental pressures associated with University operations.
Restoration priorities are informed by ecological conditions, the extent of degradation, opportunities for environmental improvement and the feasibility of appropriate interventions.
5.2. Restoration of Degraded Land
Where restoration needs are identified, the policy promotes measures intended to improve soil stability, restore vegetation cover and support the recovery of ecological functions.
Relevant approaches include:
Rehabilitation of disturbed or degraded soils.
Re-establishment of native or ecologically suitable vegetation.
Erosion control and improvement of ground cover.
Rehabilitation of degraded green spaces and terrestrial environments.
Protection of regenerating vegetation and recovering areas.
5.3. Afforestation and Reforestation
The University supports appropriate afforestation, reforestation and forest rehabilitation initiatives as part of its broader commitment to terrestrial ecosystem restoration.
These initiatives emphasize ecological suitability, local environmental conditions, responsible planting practices and the long-term establishment of vegetation.
University-supported planting initiatives, including activities undertaken in cooperation with public authorities and environmental partners, are considered within this restoration framework.
5.4. Rehabilitation Following Institutional Activities
Where construction, maintenance, landscaping, agricultural operations or other University activities disturb terrestrial environments, the responsible units identify and implement appropriate rehabilitation measures proportionate to the nature and extent of the disturbance.
These measures seek to restore vegetation, improve soil conditions and reduce persistent environmental impacts. Follow-up assessments inform any additional action needed to support ecological recovery.
5.5. Assessment of Restoration Outcomes
The policy promotes the evaluation of restoration activities through relevant indicators, including vegetation establishment, soil stability, ground cover, ecological recovery and the condition of rehabilitated areas.
6. SUSTAINABLE USE AND MANAGEMENT OF TERRESTRIAL ECOSYSTEMS
Bahçeşehir University promotes the sustainable use of land and natural resources through responsible agricultural practices, soil management, green space maintenance and environmentally informed land-use decisions.
6.1. Sustainable Land-Use Planning
Institutional land-use decisions consider the ecological characteristics of affected areas, existing vegetation, soil conditions and potential environmental pressures.
The policy encourages approaches that minimize unnecessary land disturbance and maintain the long-term ecological functions of terrestrial environments.
Land-use planning prioritizes avoiding damage to existing ecosystems. Where impacts cannot be avoided, responsible units identify measures to minimize disturbance and rehabilitate affected areas.
6.2. Sustainable Agricultural Land Management
At BAU Farm and other relevant University locations, sustainable agricultural land management principles support the long-term health and productivity of agricultural ecosystems.
These principles include:
Maintaining soil quality and reducing erosion risks.
Preserving naturally occurring vegetation where ecologically appropriate.
Avoiding unnecessary removal of vegetation from agricultural landscapes.
Reducing unnecessary chemical pressures on soil and surrounding environments.
Supporting responsible management of cultivated land and associated natural areas.
Considering the ecological relationships between agricultural production, soil resources and surrounding landscapes.
6.3. Sustainable Management of Hazelnut Orchard Ecosystems
The policy recognizes the importance of sustainable management practices in hazelnut-growing landscapes associated with BAU Farm in Giresun.
Relevant considerations include maintaining soil health, protecting natural ground vegetation where appropriate, reducing avoidable land disturbance and supporting the ecological sustainability of orchard environments.
The management of agricultural landscapes takes into account both productive land use and the conservation of the natural resources on which long-term agricultural sustainability depends.
6.4. Sustainable Green Space Management
University gardens and landscaped areas are managed with consideration for vegetation health, soil conservation, ecological suitability and efficient use of natural resources.
The policy encourages the use of locally suitable plant species, responsible maintenance practices and the preservation of existing green cover.
6.5. Responsible Natural Resource Use
The University promotes efficient and environmentally responsible use of water, soil, vegetation and other resources relevant to terrestrial ecosystem health.
Resource management practices seek to minimize avoidable environmental pressures and support the long-term functioning of associated ecosystems.
6.6. Prevention of Harmful Land-Use Impacts
The policy promotes measures to prevent or minimize adverse effects arising from inappropriate land use, soil contamination, excessive chemical application, invasive alien species and unnecessary vegetation disturbance.
7. ECOSYSTEM ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING
Bahçeşehir University establishes a framework for assessing terrestrial ecosystem conditions and evaluating relevant conservation, restoration and sustainable land management practices.
7.1. Assessment of Terrestrial Ecosystem Conditions
The assessment framework includes consideration of vegetation cover, soil conditions, land-use characteristics, ecological functions and potential environmental pressures in areas associated with University operations.
7.2. Monitoring of Land and Vegetation Conditions
Monitoring priorities are determined according to ecological sensitivity, land-use characteristics, potential environmental impacts and the availability of relevant information.
Appropriate methods include:
Field observations and environmental assessments.
Vegetation and ground-cover observations.
Soil condition and erosion assessments.
Land-use and habitat mapping.
Photographic documentation of environmental conditions.
Assessment of tree planting and restoration activities.
Scientific studies and expert evaluations.
7.3. Monitoring of Restoration and Sustainable-Use Measures
Where conservation, restoration or sustainable land management measures are implemented, relevant observations and records support the assessment of their progress and environmental outcomes.
7.4. Environmental Records and Evaluation
The policy provides for the organization of relevant information concerning terrestrial ecosystem conditions, land management practices, conservation measures and restoration activities.
Assessment findings inform environmental management decisions and support the continuous improvement of institutional practices.
8. INSTITUTIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
8.1. University Rectorate
The Rectorate provides institutional oversight of the policy and supports its integration into University governance, environmental sustainability and relevant operational processes.
8.2. Academic Units and Research Centres
Relevant academic units and research centres contribute scientific expertise, research and educational activities concerning terrestrial ecosystem conservation, sustainable agriculture, soil management, environmental rehabilitation and responsible land use.
8.3. Administrative and Facilities Management Units
Units responsible for campus management, infrastructure, landscaping, construction and maintenance incorporate relevant ecosystem conservation, soil protection, land rehabilitation and sustainable resource management principles into their operational responsibilities.
8.4. BAU Farm Management
BAU Farm management contributes to the application of sustainable agricultural land management and ecosystem conservation principles in the Farm's operational area, including hazelnut orchards, soil resources, natural vegetation and surrounding agricultural landscapes.
8.5. Institutional Sustainability Coordination
The units responsible for sustainability coordination support the collection and organization of ecosystem-related information, implementation monitoring and institutional sustainability reporting.
9. IMPLEMENTATION FRAMEWORK
The policy establishes five interconnected stages for the conservation, restoration and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.
Stage 1 — Ecosystem and Land Condition Assessment
Identification of relevant terrestrial environments, vegetation characteristics, soil conditions, land-use patterns and potential environmental pressures associated with University operations.
Stage 2 — Conservation and Restoration Needs Assessment
Evaluation of ecosystem conservation priorities, land degradation risks, restoration needs and potential impacts arising from relevant institutional activities.
Stage 3 — Sustainable Land Management Planning
Consideration of appropriate ecosystem protection measures, soil conservation practices, restoration priorities, sustainable resource use and relevant institutional responsibilities.
Stage 4 — Conservation, Restoration and Sustainable-Use Measures
Integration of preventive, protective, restorative and sustainable land management measures into relevant University operations, agricultural activities and environmental initiatives.
Stage 5 — Monitoring and Continuous Improvement
Evaluation of land conditions, conservation activities, restoration measures and sustainable-use practices to inform improvements in environmental management.
10. LEGAL AND INTERNATIONAL FRAMEWORK
This policy is guided by internationally recognized environmental sustainability and terrestrial ecosystem conservation frameworks and is implemented in accordance with applicable national legislation, including:
United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land.
Convention on Biological Diversity.
United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification.
Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention).
Republic of Türkiye Environmental Law No. 2872.
Republic of Türkiye Forest Law No. 6831.
Republic of Türkiye National Parks Law No. 2873.
Republic of Türkiye Soil Conservation and Land Use Law No. 5403.
Relevant national regulations concerning forest protection, soil conservation, agricultural land management, environmental protection and ecological restoration.
11. POLICY REVIEW AND REVISION
The policy is reviewed at least once every two years as part of the University's institutional sustainability and environmental management processes.
Additional reviews are initiated where necessary in response to:
Changes in relevant national legislation or international environmental frameworks.
New scientific findings concerning terrestrial ecosystems, land degradation or ecological restoration.
Significant changes in University operations, land use or agricultural activities.
Monitoring findings indicating additional conservation or restoration needs.
Changes in environmental risks affecting associated terrestrial ecosystems.
Recommendations arising from institutional assessments and evaluations.
Policy revisions are submitted to the authorized University governing body for approval.
