On June 13, 2025, METU took an inclusive step by organizing the "Climate Action Plan Co-Design Workshop," giving a voice to all university stakeholders in shaping its vision for climate change and sustainability. The workshop, coordinated by METU CLIMATE, was launched with opening speeches by METU Rector Prof. Dr. Ahmet Yozgatlıgil and Prof. Dr. Barış Salihoğlu, Director of the METU Center for Climate Change and Sustainable Development (METU CLIMATE). They initiated the discussion on the strategic framework that will guide the university's climate change response.

The workshop was structured around five main strategic themes:

• Energy, Transportation, and Built Environment

• Circular Economy, Water and Waste Management

• Natural Environment, Ecosystems, and Biodiversity

• Sustainability Education, Research, and Knowledge Sharing

• Data Governance, Measurement, and Transparency

METU Rector Prof. Dr. Ahmet Yozgatlıgil actively participated in each strategic theme group during the workshop, engaging directly in group discussions and contributing to the work. Likewise, members of the METU CLIMATE Executive Board participated actively throughout the workshop, providing expert input during thematic discussions. Student participation was ensured through the involvement of 54 METU Climate Envoys selected from 218 applicants. Active participation of administrative staff from various units also strengthened the participatory and holistic nature of the workshop.

At the end of the workshop, the outputs of all groups were shared in a general evaluation session, resulting in the creation of the first draft documents that will serve as a roadmap for METU’s Climate Action Plan.

Embedding a Culture of Sustainability into Practice

While the workshop was shaped by valuable discussions and solution proposals, sustainability principles were also reflected in its implementation. To prevent plastic waste, participants were given reusable mugs for use during and after the event. Name tags also included embedded seeds as a symbolic gift that participants could plant afterward. The refreshments served during the event also aligned with the sustainability approach. Snacks were sourced from women's cooperatives and vegetarian meal options were provided. This approach reflected a holistic plan prioritizing both social benefit and ecological sensitivity.

The METU Climate Action Plan aims not only to enhance the university’s environmental performance but also to systematize and make trackable its sustainability approach in research and education. The workshop outcomes will be developed further to guide the final draft of the action plan.