This section of the web site is an 'initiatives' hub. It outlines the efforts on campus that emphasize our commitment to the environment. The directory is designed to not only inform, but provide inspiration and ideas to help perpetuate sustainability at Western.

"Never doubt that a small group of committed people can change the world.
Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." ~Margaret Mead

Energy Conservation

Energy conservation reduces the energy consumption and energy demand per capita, and thus offsets the growth in energy supply needed to keep up with population growth. This reduces the rise in energy costs, and can reduce the need for new power plants, and energy imports. The reduced energy demand can provide more flexibility in choosing the most preferred methods of energy production. <how are we conserving?>

Diversion / Recycling

Diverting and recycling are both effective means of preventing the waste of useful materials, reduce the consumption of resources, and reduce energy consumption. <how are we diverting?>

Students & Studies

Student involvement is essentially "the future investing in the future." There is no other demographic at Western that has more to gain from developing sustainable strategies than the student body. <how are our students involved?>

Infrastructure

Buildings and man-made infrastructure has a tremendous impact on environmental quality, resource use, and human health and productivity. Sustainable design meets current building needs and reduces impacts in coming years. <how are we improving?>

Transportation

Connecting people, places, goods and services to one another is vital to the social and economic success of any community. Using the automobile is a key means, but not the only means, and less dependence on it can lower green house gas emissions. <how are we contributing?>

Research

With escalating concerns about global energy ith shortages and the impacts of human activity on the environment, a great deal of attention has turned to the advancement of green technology and the development of alternative and clean fuels for energy. In recent years, Western has committed itself to becoming a leader in the development of new sources of energy and an advocate for a sustainable environment. <how are we advancing?>

Awareness

Brining awareness to a cause will allow it to grow as shared knowledge and interest propels it forward. <how are we sharing?>

This is a living document maintained by Facilities Management. It best represents the initiatives at The University of Western Ontario and will continue to develop on a frequent basis. Please feel free to make recommendations by contacting Brandon Watson (bwatso5@uwo.ca)