Recognizing the growing urgency to address environmental challenges, Near East University organized a symposium titled “Sustainable Living Principles for Planetary Health.” Held at the İrfan Günsel Congress Center, the event emphasized the critical role of sustainable practices and conscious living in safeguarding the health of the planet and future generations. With a focus on fostering awareness and interdisciplinary dialogue, the symposium brought together experts, academics, and students for a comprehensive exploration of pressing global issues.

Organized in collaboration with the Faculty of Health Sciences, the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, the Dean of Students Office, and the Nutrition and Dietetics Student Club, the symposium featured three thematic sessions: “The Earth and Humanity,” “Agriculture, Technology, and the Planet,” and “Lifestyle Activities and Planetary Health.” The event concluded with a panel discussion titled “Discussion and Expert Opinions,” offering attendees a broad perspective on topics ranging from environmental sustainability to individual lifestyle choices.

The opening speeches were delivered by Prof. Dr. Adile Öniz, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mustafa Hoca, Head of the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics; and Zeynep Yıldırım, President of the Nutrition and Dietetics Student Club. The event was also attended by Near East University Rector Prof. Dr. Tamer Şanlıdağ, drawing significant interest from both students and academics.

The symposium’s first session was dedicated to the memory of the late Assoc. Prof. Dr. Serdar Susever, former Vice Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences. Assist. Prof. Dr. Taygun Dayı opened the session with a presentation titled “The Human Factor in Planetary Health,” which explored the profound impact of human behavior on the environment. Following this, Prof. Dr. Murat Özgören discussed humanity’s responsibility toward nature in his thought-provoking talk, “The Planet and Homo Sapiens: A Lease Agreement.”
 
 
In the second session, Prof. Dr. Özge Özden delivered an insightful presentation, “How Individual and Commercial Agriculture Impact Planetary Health,” examining the environmental effects of agricultural practices. Meanwhile, Engineer Savaş Bağkur’s talk, “Technological Innovations and Their Impact on Planetary Health,” shed light on the potential of technology to drive environmental sustainability.

The final session focused on lifestyle’s role in environmental impact. Assist. Prof. Dr. Melis Bağkur presented “The Role of Physical Activity in Planetary Health,” emphasizing the link between movement and environmental responsibility. Assist. Prof. Dr. Servet Madencioğlu concluded the session with “From Farm to Fork: The Planetary Burden of Food,” offering a detailed analysis of food production and consumption’s environmental implications.

In her opening remarks, Prof. Dr. Adile Öniz highlighted the symposium’s significance, stating, “The knowledge shared here has the power to inspire meaningful change. I urge everyone to spread awareness and spark conversations in their communities to create a ripple effect of positive action.”

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mustafa Hoca underlined the multifaceted nature of sustainability, explaining, “True sustainability is about balancing economic, social, health, agricultural, and technological factors. Only by managing our resources responsibly can we ensure a livable planet for future generations.”

Zeynep Yıldırım, President of the Nutrition and Dietetics Student Club, added, “This symposium is a valuable opportunity to reflect on our individual and collective responsibilities. Sustainable living begins with small steps and personal accountability, leading to significant global impacts.”

The event concluded with a powerful call to action, inspiring participants to prioritize sustainability in their daily lives and advocate for broader systemic change to protect the planet for generations to come.