Historic Commitment for a Clean Future
Adding another to its collaborations based on environmental and social benefit, Izmir University of Economics (IUE) signed the ‘Izmir 2030 Urban Commitment’, initiated with the goal of becoming ‘climate neutral’ (carbon neutrality and net zero carbon dioxide). Stating that a city-wide institutional mobilization has begun in Izmir for a healthy and clean future, and that this alliance is highly valuable, IUE Rector Prof. Dr. Yusuf Hakan Abacıoğlu said, “We will continue contributing to the goal of a cleaner, more environmentally friendly, and climate-friendly city.”
The most recent meeting of the Izmir Economic Development Coordination Board (IEKKK) marked a historic step at both the city and national level. Many institutions, including Izmir University of Economics, signed the ‘Izmir 2030 Urban Commitment’ initiated by the Izmir Metropolitan Municipality and included it in their strategic plans. As part of the agreement, the “Izmir 2030 Mission Action Lab” will be established at the IzQ Innovation Center, coordinated by the Izmir Planning Agency (IZPA). The institutions that signed the commitment will contribute to the transformation through their planned efforts.
“WE WILL BE PART OF THE SOLUTION”
Stating that signing the “Izmir 2030 Urban Commitment” is not only a form of participation but also a declaration of responsibility for Izmir University of Economics, Prof. Dr. Abacıoğlu said, “This step we’ve taken fully aligns with the environmentally friendly and sustainability-focused vision our University has embraced for years. As we have done until now, we will continue to contribute to our city of Izmir with our scientific knowledge and human resources and fulfill any responsibilities that fall on us. Our aim is not only to raise awareness about climate change but also to be an active part of the solution.”
THE 2030 GOAL
The commitment represents a strong and collective step toward Izmir’s goal of becoming a carbon-neutral city by 2030. The Izmir 2030 Urban Commitment brings together all of the city’s institutions with an inclusive and action-oriented approach. The commitment text aims to strengthen institutional cooperation in areas such as climate neutrality, energy and food security, nature-based solutions, social justice, creative economy, and inclusive governance. With this document, the participating institutions commit to contribute to a shared transformation under the umbrella of the Izmir 2030 Mission Action Lab to be established at the IzQ Innovation Center under the coordination of the Izmir Planning Agency (IZPA).
