Strategic Inter-University Collaboration on the Road to COP31

Accordingly, we have joined forces as the Sustainable Environment and Society Application and Research Center (SCTUAM) of Istanbul Gelisim University, the Sustainable Development and Twin Transition Application and Research Center (SURKAM) of Istanbul Medipol University, and the Environment, Energy and Sustainability Application and Research Center (CESUAM) of Istanbul Bilgi University.

The structure we aim to establish represents not only academic collaboration, but also an impact-oriented ecosystem that contributes to policy-making processes and is grounded in practical implementation. Within this framework, we held meetings with Deputy President of the Climate Change Presidency, Orhan Solak, and FAO Türkiye Deputy Representative, Dr. Ayşegül Selışık, during which we comprehensively discussed the potential contributions of universities to the COP31 process, areas of joint work, and multi-stakeholder collaboration mechanisms.

Our goal is to develop a sustainable collaboration model that integrates scientific knowledge production with policy processes, actively involves young people and researchers, and strengthens Türkiye’s visibility in the COP31 process.