REPORT ON SDG 14: LIFE BELOW WATER

This report outlines Baku State University's comprehensive commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14) - "Life Below Water." The university has taken significant steps to support and educate local and national communities about the conservation and sustainable utilization of aquatic ecosystems and resources.

In the realm of education BSU offers a range of educational programs, including courses on freshwater ecosystems, aquatic plants, and freshwater aquaculture. These courses empower students and the community to understand water management, conservation, and aquaculture practices. Additionally, the university conducts outreach activities to raise awareness about overfishing, illegal fishing, and harmful fishing practices.

BSU is actively engaged in practical actions aimed at promoting the conservation and sustainable use of aquatic ecosystems. This includes organizing events to study and assess the ecological state of lakes and adjacent areas, with a focus on responsible water management. The university offers courses and research methods to maintain and extend biodiversity, with a special emphasis on ecosystems under threat. Furthermore, BSU collaborates with industries to research technologies and practices that minimize damage to aquatic ecosystems.

The report also highlights BSU's efforts in water-sensitive waste disposal, where a water cleaning robot project addresses water quality and pollution concerns. The university has also established water quality standards and guidelines for water discharges to protect ecosystems and human health.

In line with SDG 14, BSU has a policy to reduce plastic waste on campus, limiting plastic bottle use and promoting recycling. The institution has enacted policies to prevent and reduce marine pollution from land-based activities.

To maintain local ecosystems, BSU has implemented initiatives such as the "Sustainable Harmony of Nature" club, focused on raising awareness and protecting aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. The university conducts biomonitoring to assess the health of aquatic ecosystems. Moreover, BSU supports programs and incentives to encourage good aquatic stewardship practices and collaborates with the local community and relevant organizations.

The report concludes with an overview of BSU's watershed management strategy, which considers the diversity of aquatic species in the region. Research projects on Caspian sturgeon species exemplify the university's commitment to maintaining local ecosystems.In summary, Baku State University has demonstrated a strong commitment to promoting the conservation and sustainable use of aquatic ecosystems and resources, addressing the key aspects of SDG 14 through education, action, waste disposal, and ecosystem maintenance.

For more detail please see: REPORT ON SDG 14: LIFE BELOW WATER