Goal – Institutionalize Sustainability

College Initiative: Decreasing paper use with new printers and software

New multi-function printers (MFP’s), units that scan, print, copy, and fax, and printing software, appropriately called “PaperCut” are helping Algonquin College decrease paper use by both employees and students.

Algonquin College employees first started using the new printing set up at the beginning of the 2016-2017 academic year. With twelve months of use, more than 75,000 sheets of paper have been saved from use as employees chose to cancel print jobs or allowed the document that was sent to the printing queue to time-out. The savings in trees and carbon emissions that result from employees printing less are: approximately nine trees that were not needed to manufacture paper, and 960 kg of associated carbon emissions.

Students at Algonquin College started off the 2017-2018 academic year with the new printers and software. In the first month of use by students, more than 19,000 sheets of paper have been saved from use as students either actively chose to cancel a print job after seeing the impact (cost, trees and associated carbon emissions) with the PaperCut software, or they allowed the document to time-out.

Data comparing printing by students at the start of the 2017-2018 academic year to the first two weeks of the 2016-2017 academic year shows a decrease in printing of 60%.

In addition to the savings in paper through this initiative, the new MFP’s are energy-efficient and use less electricity on an annual basis.

Learn More

The changes in how Algonquin College employees print documents is part of a comprehensive AC Print Strategy. Students are provided extra support on how to print, scan and copy under the Print Shop website and through Information Technology Services (ITS).

Group leading initiative: Ancillary Services

For more information, contact:
Algonquin College
613-727-4723
sustainability@algonquincollege.com

 

College Initiative: “22-4” Student Sustainability Leader Award

Algonquin College Student Sustainability Leaders

Algonquin College Student Sustainability Leaders demonstrate their commitment to sustainability in many ways, such as organizing a student-focused sustainability conference and engaging their peers in dialogue on important topics.

Algonquin College values grassroots contributions from students to further the College’s sustainability journey.

To recognized students’ efforts, the Sustainable Algonquin Steering Committee has created the “22-4” Student Sustainability Leader Award. The name of the award, “22-4” aligns with annual Earth Day celebrations (Earth Day is celebrated on the 22nd day of the fourth month of every year).

The “22-4” Algonquin College Sustainability Leader Award provides recognition, as well as a financial reward to students who volunteer a significant amount of their time to create change reflecting positive social and environmental impacts while respecting economic constraints. The efforts of sustainability leaders can further initiatives within the Algonquin College community or within the broader communities where Algonquin College operates.

The Algonquin College Foundation has established a mechanism on Canada Helps.org to allow individuals to contribute to this fund with the hope that each year, there will be at least $500 to award to deserving students. The fund was started by a generous donation from a guest speaker for an Algonquin College sustainability-oriented event who saw the need to further support students who were leading sustainability action and awareness activities on campus. The grassroots employee sustainability action team, See Earth Action Team for Sustainability (SEATS) has also contributed to the fund to support this award.

Annually, an ad-hoc selection committee under the direction of the Sustainable Algonquin Steering Committee will elect to offer one or more students recognition and a financial award for their contribution to assisting the College in working towards its goals as defined by the College Sustainability Strategy Framework. Students can be nominated for the award by Algonquin College employees or by their fellow students.

Nominations are required by March 15 of every year.

Group leading initiative: Sustainable Algonquin Steering Committee

For more information, contact:
Algonquin College
613-727-4723
sustainability@algonquincollege.com

College Initiative: AC Salon a Green Circle Salon

The AC Salon, Spa and Boutique is Algonquin College’s living laboratory for Hairstyling and Esthetician students enrolled in programs in the School of Hospitality and Tourism.

Since opening in its renovated space at the Algonquin College Ottawa campus in 2014, the AC Salon has been operating as a Green Circle Salon. Under the program, students actively learn how salon and spa operations impact the environment, and how they can make positive changes through their recycling procedures, product choices and connections with the community.

In 2016, the AC Spa contributed to the more than 850,000 lbs of waste that was diverted from landfill and water ways as a result of Green Circle Salon efforts across Canada and the United States.

The salon recycles aluminum, the most recyclable of all materials as well as hair and other items. Hair is collected by Green Circle Salon and used to manufacture hair booms for the purposes of oil spill cleanup.

Learn more

Algonquin Times story, written by: Algonquin College journalism student, Amber Provencal.
AC Salon, Spa and Boutique website
AC Salon, Spa and Boutique opening in 2014
Green Circle Salon

Group leading initiative: School of Hospitality and Tourism

For more information, contact:
Algonquin College
613-727-4723
sustainability@algonquincollege.com

 

College Initiative: Green Move-Out from Rez 2017

Students living in Algonquin College Residence facilities are encouraged to be a part of a Green Move-Out from Rez as they pack up their belongings and head back home.

In 2016, it is estimated that the amount of items NOT sent to landfill was the approximate equivalent of the weight of a mid-sized car!






 

 

What did that look like?

 

Furniture – 51.7 KG
Food – 238.2 KG
Clothing – 405.7 KG
Misc Household – 609.33 KG
School Supplies – 85.3 KG

Total =1390.23 + 10% estimate for materials not weighed =1529.25 KG

All of these valuable items were put to good use!

Check out this video produced for the 2016 Dump & Run activities.

 

(NOTE: to compost left-over food items in 2017, please contact the front desk for instructions)

Groups leading initiative: Residence Life

For more information, contact:
Algonquin College Residence
613-727-7698
info@algonquinrez.ca

College Initiative: World Water Day Student Video 2017

World Water Day takes place every year on March 22. The theme for 2017 is focusing on awareness of wastewater with the theme, “Why waste water?”.

Algonquin College is committed to reducing is ecological footprint and has many reasons to celebrate regarding the positive steps it is taking to rethink our relationship with water. Here are some highlights:

  • Development of a green infrastructure strategy that will guide decision-making on College activities relating to water (initiative led by Physical Resources)
    Rain water (greywater) from LEED(R) Platinum Certified ACCE building green roof is captured and used in the building to flush toilets and urinals. As well, it is used for irrigation purposes onsite (initiative led by Physical Resources)
  • ESCO2 project effected the replacement of all toilets and urinals at Ottawa campus to low flow resulting in annual water use reductions of estimated at 38,900 cubic meters, the equivalent of more than 15 Olympic-sized swimming pools (initiative led by Physical Resources in partnership with Siemens)
  • Bioswales and permeable parking at Pembroke campus allowing rainwater to naturally enter the Ottawa River watershed (LEED Gold Certified building design led by Physical Resources)
  • Rain water at Perth campus is harvested with a 2000 litre system and used in the low flow toilets and urinals to result in a 60% reduction in water use compared to conventionally designed buildings. Permeable parking at Perth campus allowing rainwater to naturally enter the Tay River watershed (LEED Gold Certified building design led by Physical Resources)
  • Annual water awareness campaign collaborations with See Earth Action Team for Sustainability (SEATS), AC Green Team, General Arts and Science Community Engagement projects (grassroots initiative) (check out this year’s video produced by students in General Arts & Science Year II Community Engagement project)
  • AC Salon is a Green Circle Salon which means all hair dye chemicals are disposed of properly and not rinsed down the drain (grassroots initiative led by professors in the School of Hospitality and Tourism)
  • Save for Change program at terra20 provides Algonquin College employees and students with a discount at its stores and online shopping for biodegradable and non-toxic household cleaning and personal care products that are safe for water systems (initiative led by Ancillary Services)

Check out the 2017 World Water Day video and resources at www.worldwaterday.org

Group leading initiative: Multiple

For more information, contact:
Algonquin College
613-727-4723
info@algonquincollege.com

 

College Initiative: Sustainability Week @AC Spring 2016

sustainabilityDay2015With just two weeks to go before Earth Day, Algonquin College will put the spotlight on sustainability over five days at its Ottawa, Pembroke and Perth campus locations for a grassroots Sustainability Week.

From April 11-15 sustainability-themed activities will be popping up at various times and locations with a mix of informative, engaging and fun ways for employees to connect with work colleagues and for students to connect with their peers while sharing and exploring ideas on this important topic, practicing critical thinking skills and becoming empowered to take action.

Three key themes are surfacing as part of the week’s activities:

  1. You have power! As consumers (which we all are!) we have power in the decisions we make on a daily basis to impact a more sustainable future. Interact with student projects on Tuesday, April 12 to understand sustainability solutions, then take action and practice that power by trying out saying “no thanks” to plastic bags while shopping at Connections Store (Draw for a $10 Connections gift card every week in April!).
  2. Learn more and join the discussion! A new Algonquin-specific “Introduction to Sustainability” elearning module is now available. This online training program is fun, engaging and takes less than an hour to complete. Students who complete the module can record it as a co-curricular record activity. Employees who complete the module can earn their “Sustainable Algonquin” badge on myAC.
  3. Innovation for a prosperous future is all around us! Student projects on display on April 12 will showcase a wide array of sustainability solutions that are enabling society to overcome some of today’s pressing environmental and social issues. And on Applied Research Day, April 15 innovation and bright ideas will highlight new approaches being tested that will drive further sustainable growth in our local and global economy.

The week’s schedule of activities includes:cutleryset

Monday, April 11 10 am – 1 pm, Perth Campus: “Get ‘Badged’ and pick up “ecoswag”
Perth Commons and Student Association Office. Employees will be introduced to the “Introduction to Sustainability” elearning module to “Get ‘Badged’”, and students are invited to practice the three “Rs” (Reduce, Reuse Recycle) with their new reusable cutlery sets (aka “ecoswag”) that will be handed out.

Tuesday, April 12, 10 am – 3 pm, Woodroffe Campus: Sustainability Day
Student Commons, E building 1st Floor. Teams of students from Environmental Studies and the School of Business Communications II will share their class projects where they researched sustainability solutions in a sustainability fair format. Students are invited to vote for the ideas they like the best to be entered to win tentree t-shirts.
College employees are also invited to visit E building during lunch to find out how they can “Get ‘Badged’”, get involved in making this year’s move out of Residence “greener” and learn about getting involved in Algonquin’s very own community garden on campus.

Wednesday, April 13, 9:30-10:30, Woodroffe Campus: Q&A with Green Party Leader, Elizabeth May
Student Commons, E building 1st Floor, Corner Lounge (behind Starbucks). This event is organized by the Student Club, Earth Allies.

Thursday, April 14, 11:00-1:00 pm, Pembroke Campus: “Get ‘Badged’” and pick up “ecoswag”
Pembroke Commons. Students are invited to practice the three “Rs” (Reduce, Reuse Recycle) with their new reusable cutlery sets (“ecoswag”) that will be handed out, and learn about ways they can add sustainability involvement and activities to their co-curricular record.
Pembroke campus employees will be introduced to the “Introduction to Sustainability” elearning module in a Lunch and Learn from 12 – 1:00 pm. (Room 328)

Friday, April 15, 8:00am – 2:30 pm, Woodroffe Campus: Applied Research Day
Multiple locations. Applied Research Day is a special event that showcases the power of collaboration, partnerships, innovation, entrepreneurship and learning. Each year, the number of projects that embody sustainability thinking increases. Stay tuned to find out how many of this year’s projects can be seen as more evidence of Algonquin College’s role as an incubator for the green economy.

AND!

Look for special promotions in Connections April 11-15 (think reduce, reuse, recycle!) and when you say “no thanks” when asked if you would like a plastic bag to carry your purchases, you will be entered into a weekly draw for a Connections gift card!

solarovenGroup leading initiative: Multiple

For more information, contact:
Algonquin College
613-727-4723
info@algonquincollege.com

 

College Initiative: Earth Hour 2016

Earth Hour 2016 at Algonquin College is a time for fun, engagement and reflection on the simple things we can all do to decrease our ecological footprint – in particular our carbon footprint.

Students in Algonquin College Residence are invited to join in the activities in the Student Association lounge on the 2nd floor for glow-in-the dark board games and other activities.

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When: Earth Hour, Saturday, March 19 8:30 pm – 9:30 pm

Where: Algonquin College Residence, Second floor, Student Association Lounge

(note: this activity is only for Algonquin College students living in Residence)

And Earth Hour is really much more than 60 minutes!

Here are the top 10 items for a lighter carbon footprint for all Algonquin College community members :

 

1. Turn it off!

Turn off lights and electronics when not in use! (charge all mobile devices at night, too!)
2. Commute smart!

Drive less: walk, car pool, use public transit, bike. Get some exercise too! (regular car maintenance, electric and hybrid cars are great steps too!)
3. Practice the 3 Rs!

Reduce the items you need to purchase, Reuse and Recycle more!
4. Buy smart!

Look for products with less packaging, from local sources, with and EnergyStar certification and with “eco” labels!
5. Use less hot water!

Showers, laundry, washing dishes are all opportunities to save energy!
6. Practice Meatless Mondays!

Consume less meat! More vegetarian and vegan meals dramatically reduces your carbon footprint!
7. Adjust your thermostat!

Simply adjust your thermostat: up in the summer and down in the winter!
8. Take the stairs!

Burn your own energy by taking the stairs instead of the elevator when possible!
9. Take back the tap!

Use a reusable water bottle and drink clean, delicious, and refreshing tap water!
10. Spread the awareness!

Get informed and share your knowledge and the positive steps you are taking for a healthier environment!
More tips! http://yearsoflivingdangerously.com/what-we-can-do/individual-solutions/

 

Groups leading initiative: AC Green Team & General Arts & Science, Year 2 Community Engagement, Residence Life

For more information, contact:

Algonquin College Residence
613-727-7698
info@algonquinrez.ca

College Initiative: Sustainability Education Online Learning

 

Sustainability literacy for all

Sustainability literacy is a part of the Algonquin College experience for all students enrolled in Ontario College credential programs.

With the financial support of the Sustainability Education program from Siemens Canada, a new set of online learning tools is available to support incorporating sustainability education in an online and hybrid classroom environment.

The tools were developed to meet the specific need of conveying the sometimes complex topic of sustainability in a format that is accessible for a wide audience – students, employees and even those outside the immediate Algonquin College community.

Supporting the development process under Algonquin College’s Curriculum Services was a small advisory team comprised of representatives from Algonquin College administration, faculty, support staff and students.

Delivering on commitments

This initiative is another example of how Algonquin College continues to deliver on its commitment to ensure that sustainability is embedded in its culture, learning and operations.

These commitments were made when it signed the Talloires Declaration and the Colleges and Institutes Canada Pan Canadian Protocol for Sustainability.

The initial 1-hour module, Introduction to Sustainability, was released in January 2016 and will be piloted within academic programs. It is also available as part of professional development offerings. Additional supporting tools are being made available following the initial pilot.

Simple actions for sustainable algonquin video

Group leading initiative: Sustainable Algonquin Steering Committee

For more information, contact:
Algonquin College
613-727-4723
info@algonquincollege.com

College Initiative: AC Green Team

ACGreenTeamAC Green Leaders serve as educators in peer-to-peer sustainability outreach at Algonquin College. The AC Green Team is a select group of leaders who work to help share sustainability concepts and a sustainability ethic throughout the campus community. Being an AC Green Leader is a valuable learning experience for students that can deepen their understanding of sustainability while developing their outreach and education skills.

The AC Green Team started in the 2015-2016 academic year as a pilot program supported under the guidance of the Sustainable Algonquin Steering Committee. The initiative is a part of Algonquin College’s Sustainability Education program. Sustainability Education is financially supported by Algonquin College’s energy services provider, Siemens. Students that participate as volunteer leaders in this program will be eligible to add this to their co-curricular record.

By participating in a wide variety of outreach activities, as well as lending their own unique strengths in areas such as social media and connecting with their peers, AC Green Leaders will:

  • Educate students for sustainability
  • Create awareness of the Algonquin College sustainability vision of: Caring Today, For Tomorrow
  • Support energy awareness and energy conservation behaviours within student population
  • Support waste and recycling awareness and behaviour change within student population
  • Support responsible water consumption and reduced ecological impact within student population
  • Instill positive mindset relating to empowerment, innovation and change relating to climate change, social justice, biodiversity, community resilience issues

Applications for 2018-2019 Academic Year now being accepted

Students interested in volunteering 1-5 hours per week (October – March) are invited to submit an application to join the 2017-2018 AC Green Team.

To apply, please send the following to: ATTN: AC Green Team, sustainability@algonquincollege.com:

  1. Your Full Name, program of Study, Student ID, Availability (days & times)
  2. Provide brief answers to the following questions on why you want to be involved:
  • Why you want to be involved? (200 words max.)
  • The strengths you will bring to the team? (100 words max.)
  • What sustainability topics are you interested in? (100 words max.)
  • What you would like to get out of the program in the way of your skill and knowledge development? (100 words max.)

Groups leading initiative: Physical Resources and Sustainable Algonquin Steering Committee

For more information, contact:

Algonquin College
613-727-4723, ext 7710
sustainability@algonquincollege.com

College Initiative: AC Earth Day 2015

ED2015_banner-300-x-2502015 marks the 45th anniversary of Earth Day, celebrated on April 22 each year. The globally recognized day provides an annual point of focus for citizen around the world to reflect on the importance of the natural environment, its role in supporting human life and our responsibility to protect it.

For Earth Day 2015, Algonquin’s College Ancillary Services and Sustainable Algonquin invite all Algonquin College community members to seize the positive energy of springtime and this day. It is a busy time of year with students focused on exams, but never too busy to have a bit of fun and take advantage of some great ways to mark the day. Here is a sample of what is taking place:

Reduce waste!

  • Visit the Starbucks in the Student Commons building for your FREE brewed coffee when you bring your reusable mug.
  • Get your $.10 discount on hot beverages when you bring your reusable mug at Woodroffe campus locations

renewableenergybikeGet energy aware!

Visit Connections Campus Store between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to get a first hand (or foot) experience on how much energy is required to boil water. Tea anyone? Members from Siemens energy team, collaborating with Algonquin College for better energy performance will be on hand to talk energy with the renewable energy bicycle and hand out prizes for participants.

Reduce your GHG’s by cleaning up your commute!

Earth Day Canada to working to motivate action for commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by 2020. See how you can start by cleaning up your commute.

Make every day earth day!

Algonquin College tries to make every day Earth Day with its commitment to sustainability and following its Sustainability Strategy Framework. Earth Day Canada launches a new mobile platform on Earth Day 2015 to help all Canadians make Earth Day Every Day.

Top 3 Earth Day Tips for Students:

  1. Take the stairs instead of the elevator on campus or in your apartment building – the few minutes of exercise might be just what you need to stimulate circulation and prepare you for the next exam or study session (fewer greenhouse gas emissions with less electricity used too!)
  2. Follow @ACSustainable and join the conversation about #ACSustainability
  3. Wish someone “Happy Earth Day!” – guaranteed to make you smile!

Top 3 Earth Day Tips for Faculty & Staff:

  1. Give yourself a 10-minute Earth Day break to set up your work space to make it easy to “power down” at the end of every work day. Think about changing the location of your power bar so that you can easily reach it to ensure that monitors, speakers, headsets, personal printers and other electronics can be powered down with one button. (check out the amount of electricity, costs and greenhouse gas emissions are saved each year with 92% of staff doing this simple action every day – you may be surprised at how big of an impact results from such a simple action)
  2. Sign up for the terra20 and Algonquin College “Save for Change” program. Enjoy great choices for eco-friendly home and personal care items at this Ottawa-based retailer. The more you spend, the larger the fund for Ancillary Services to do more great work for better sustainability performance for the College
  3. Download the new Earth Day Every Day mobile app and plan how you can clean your commute with the many tips offered on this site.

Happy Earth Day!

Group leading initiative: Multiple Groups

For more information, contact:

Algonquin College
613-727-4723

info@algonquincollege.com

 

 

College Initiative: Sustainability Days Spring 2015

Run for Biodiversity Seedling SaleAs Spring approaches, sustainability is evident all around the campuses of Algonquin College with students, faculty and staff organizing and participating in a wide variety of events. Grassroots sustainability-related activities and event are supported and encouraged by the Sustainable Algonquin Steering Committee (SASC) as part of its mandate: “continue to create opportunities for students and staff to engage in grassroots activities that lead toward a more sustainable future.”

Join in!

Students, faculty and staff are invited to take part in these events. Opportunities for fun, learning and inspiration are extensive.

A summarized schedule is below. Follow the links more details on events and activities and save these dates in your calendar:

March 22 – World Water Day, Students are invited to participate in the Water Awareness social media campaign to win prizes.

March 28 – Earth Hour, Residence, 8:30 pm-9:30 pm. Students in Residence are “dropping the mic” for an unplugged acoustic jam session.

April 1 – National WeDay, Ottawa. Students, faculty and staff volunteered to ensure this event’s success.

April 1 – Seedling Sale & Seed Swap, E Building, Student Commons 11 am – 3 pm. Students in the campus club: ASPEN (Algonquin Students Protecting the Environment) are hosting a sale (by donation) of vegetable plant seedlings and invited students to become seed savers. Funds raised will support the College’s Run for Biodiversity team in the Ottawa Race Weekend.

April 2 – AC Climate Aware – Tracey Clark, The AC Hub, E Building, Student Commons 2nd floor, 2 pm – 4 pm. Learn about sustainability and business from one of Ottawa’s entrepreneurs. Also, catch another episode of the Years of Living Dangerously documentary series on climate change issues and solutions.

April 7 – Approaches to Sustainability Fair, E Building, Student Commons 1 pm – 3 pm. Students in the General Arts and Science Approaches to Sustainability with share with the College community their research projects. As well, this is an opportunity to meet members of the College’s environmental and sustainability clubs, learn of other class projects relating to sustainability and tap into College resources on how you can “be inspired” to “be the change” for the upcoming school year.

April 7 – AC Inspire, E Building Algonquin Commons Theatre 3:30 pm (doors open at 3:00 pm). The AC Inspire event features tentree co-founder Derrick Emsley and is hosted by Algonquin’s own change leaders, AC See Earth Action Team for Sustainability. Ready to be inspired to be the change you want to see in the world? Don’t miss this event! Exclusive bonus for the first 500 audience members*: a free tentree shirt!

April 8 – Are you powered down? Results of 2014 campaign announced, Marketplace 11:30 am-1:00 pm. D Building. Remembering to turn off computers and monitors every day can be challenging. Algonquin College faculty and staff are invited to learn of the results of the 2014 campaign and get tips on how to make powering down a daily habit.

April 9 – Caring Today, For Tomorrow – Sustainability Strategy Framework, Marketplace 11:30 am – 1:00 pm. D Building. Algonquin College faculty and staff are invited to receive their copy of the new sustainability office poster.

April 10 – Applied Research Day, T, A, E Buildings, 8:00 am – 3:00 pm. Sustainability continues to be an important part of projects researched under the Applied Research Program. This event offers great insight on the innovation that is driving new and better approaches to key industry and community needs.

April 12 – Great Canadian Shoreline Clean Up, Downtown Ottawa, 11 am. The student club, Park Canada Adventurers is leading a Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup event near Parliament Hill. Join in by contacting: katrinakhoury@gmail.com

April 13 – Sustainability Day – Ottawa in the Valley (Pembroke) Campus. The Outdoor Adventure Naturalists program students host a day of activities and information for the Community to take in.

April 22 – Earth Day! So many ways to celebrate our planet earth today! Join in Earth Day Canada’s program: Earth Day Every Day as well as activities at the Woodroffe campus.

April 27 – AC @ Zibi Advisory Committee Meeting, T Building, 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm. College community members are invited to the next meeting of the project focusing on the College’s role in the eco-revitalization of the old Domtar Lands, now referred to as “Zibi.”

Group leading initiative: Multiple

For more information, contact:
Algonquin College
613-727-4723
info@algonquincollege.com

 

College Initiative: Sustainability at AC in Four Words

Four words can mean a lot! Just as the College summarizes its values with four words: Caring, Learning, Integrity, Respect, the Sustainable Algonquin Steering Committee (SASC) has recently updated the College’s Sustainability Strategy Framework to include a vision statement: Caring Today, For Tomorrow.

College employees can download the Sustainable Algonquin office poster as a quick reminder of the College’s nine sustainability goal statements under the three pillars of Sustainability: Social; Economic; Environmental: https://www.algonquincollege.com/sustainability/overview-2/our-framework/

As well, limited quantities of the poster are available. Keep a look out for distribution locations at the College campuses.

Group leading initiative: Sustainable Algonquin Steering Committee

For more information, contact:
Algonquin College
613-727-4723
info@algonquincollege.com

 

College Initiative: Unplugged Jam Session in Residence for Earth Hour 2015

earthhour2015In celebration of Earth Hour 2015, Algonquin College Residence is hosting an acoustic jam session “Drop the Mic” for students in Residence.

Students in Residence are invited to share their talents and enjoy some unplugged music and refreshments by the piano.

Also marking Earth Hour, Residence’s 35th Street Café will have its lights dimmed for the hour, March 28 8:30 – 9:30 p.m.

No candles are allowed in Residence of course, but students are invited to turn off their room lights and gather for this symbolic and globally-celebrated hour of energy awareness.

It is also a great time to reflect on the ways Algonquin College students can take steps to reduce their carbon footprints:

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Be AC Sustainable!

Top 10 List

Reduce Your GHG Footprint

1. Turn it off! Turn off lights and electronics when not in use! (charge all mobile devices at night, too!)
2. Commute smart!Drive less: walk, car pool, use public transit, bike. Get some exercise too! (regular car maintenance, electric and hybrid cars are great steps too!)
3. Practice the 3 Rs!Reduce the items you need to purchase, Reuse and Recycle more!
4. Buy smart!Look for products with less packaging, from local sources, with and EnergyStar certification and with “eco” labels!
5. Use less hot water!Showers, laundry, washing dishes are all opportunities to save energy!
6. Practice Meatless Mondays!Consume less meat! More vegetarian and vegan meals dramatically reduces your carbon footprint!
7. Adjust your thermostat!Simply adjust your thermostat: up in the summer and down in the winter!
8. Take the stairs! Burn your own energy by taking the stairs instead of the elevator when possible!
9. Take back the tap!Use a reusable water bottle and drink clean, delicious, and refreshing tap water!
10. Spread the awareness! Get informed and share your knowledge and the positive steps you are taking for a healthier environment!

Group leading initiative: Residence

For more information, contact:

Algonquin College Residence and Conference Centre

613-727-7698

info@algonquinrez.ca

College Initiative: Practicing the 3Rs with College Social Events

Recycle for AC Family Day January 2015The AC Family Fun Day, Winter Wonderland Edition, on Saturday, January 24 continues to incorporate sustainability practices into event planning. College community members are asked to collect “trash” to turn into treasures for two activities at the event.

For a dream-catcher craft activity, ribbons, garlands, and other special items from Holiday unwrapping, Christmas crackers and unwanted decorations are needed.

As well, yogurt containers (600-750 ml size) with lids will be helpful for a children’s activity that incorporates natural science, butterfly habitats and biodiversity concepts.

Items can be dropped off the first week of January in room C 514.

 

Recycle. Drop off at C 514

 

 

Groups leading initiative: College Social Committee

For more information, contact:

Algonquin College
613-727-4723

 

College Initiative: 2014 Annual Power Down

Power Down Poster 2014As the College-wide annual holiday shut down period approaches, all Algonquin staff and faculty are asked to help reduce wasted resources and literally “disconnect” for a relaxing and energy-conserving break.

From an energy audit last year, the College’s energy management team found that when 92% of employees power off computers and monitors every night, the College can save $44,000 annually. (see the full story here)

In the weeks before leaving the office for vacation, employees are asked to practice a new nightly routine of turning off an additional power-using device within work spaces and offices.

An online checklist is available as a guide for individuals to identify what can be powered down. All Algonquin College employees using the checklist will be entered into a draw for a wireless solar cell phone charger and speaker system.

New this year! – Team Participation Prize!

Departmental and office teams are encouraged to work collectively to meet or exceed last year’s performance of 92% of employees turning off computers.

Teams will have an opportunity to win a group prize as well as showcase their “exemplary” results of their team remembering to power down computers, monitors, printers, etc. at the January 8 Welcome Back Coffee Break and Energy Conservation Information session.

This initiative is part of the ESCO2 project with Siemens and supports Algonquin’s Sustainability Strategy Framework goals, in particular: Economic – Institutionalize Sustainability; Pursue Economic Strength, Environmental – Reduce our Ecological Footprint.

Groups leading initiative: Physical Resources and Sustainable Algonquin Steering Committee

For more information, contact:

Algonquin College
613-727-4723, ext 7710
7710@algonquincollege.com

College Initiative: Years of Living Dangerously docu-series screenings

years-of-living-dangerously-poster1-225x300Students connecting to “Years” project

The Years of Living Dangerously Project is underway and all Algonquin students will want to participate in one or more of the scheduled events taking place during the school year.

What: Movie screenings of a nine-part Emmy-winning documentary series and related activities at the College. Detailed information at: www.algonquincollege.com/years

When: October 31, 12-1:30 pm, November 18, 3-4:30 pm, December 2, 3-4:30 pm (Fall screening dates)

Special events:

Oct 31, 1:15 pm following Episode 1 screening, Skype interview with Canadian climate scientist, Katherine Hayhoe

Nov 18:, 4:15 pm, following Episode 2 screening, a Skype Q&A session with a Snake River Hotshot firefighter who is featured in this episode.

Where: AC Hub, Student Commons, E 217

Why: The project will increase awareness and understanding of one of the most important topics of our time, climate change. This is an opportunity for students to get the facts, understand the issues, apply critical thinking and exercise leadership skills. (Free refreshments and a chance to meet one of the Hollywood stars involved in the project as well!)

How to register: https://www.algonquincollege.com/years/events/

How to get involved: Attend movie screenings, use social media, get involved in sustainability-related Student Clubs on campus

 

Faculty members linking “Years” project to curriculum

Faculty members are encouraged to leverage this year-long project, and its content relating to sustainability, internationalization and climate change as a means to meet the new Sustainability and Internationalization Vocation Learning Outcome this is required in all Ontario Credentials programs.

Poster for Years of Living Dangerously episode 2 screening. Poster designed by students integrating this project into their course work.

Poster for Years of Living Dangerously episode 2 screening. Poster designed by students integrating this project into their course work.

Throughout the year, all nine episodes of this Emmy award-winning ShowTime documentary series will be screened in the AC Hub (E217). Details on the first three screenings are below:

Episode 1: October 31 12:00pm – 1:30pm. Episode stars Harrison Ford and Don Cheadle. Following the screening, a 15 minute Skype interview with Katharine Hayhoe, a Canadian climate scientist appearing in episode 1 will take place for students to speak directly with a climate expert.

Episode 2 November 18 3:00pm – 4:30pm. Episode stars Harrison Ford and Arnold Schwarzenegger. Following the screening, a Skype Q&A session with a Snake River Hotshot firefighter who is featured in this episode will take place for students to hear directly from those experiencing unexpected results from changes in climate.

Episode 3 December 2 3:00pm – 4:30pm

Free refreshments for everyone who registers via EventBrite at: www.algonquincollege.com/years/events/

Any faculty member with an interest in developing curriculum around this series is encouraged to contact project lead, Jay Smith, smithj4@algonquincollege.com.

YLD_post

Additional information about this project, and in particular the project’s culminating event, planned for April 2015 and featuring one of the Hollywood stars from the episode will be announced.

Group leading initiative: See Earth Action Team for Sustainability

For more information, contact:

Jay Smith, Algonquin College
613-727-4723
smithj4@algonquincollege.com

College Initiative: A “Green” Welcome to Res Life – 2014-2015

Algonquin College ResidenceSustainable Algonquin was on hand for the move into Algonquin College Residence at the start of the 2014-2015 academic year. A number of tips were shared with new students to remind them about how to fit into Algonquin’s “green” culture, have a lower environmental impact and keep finances sustainable too!






Create less waste:

  • When ordering take-out meals at the 35th Street Café or in the Marketplace, request reusable containers. Containers can be returned to 35th Street Café where they will be washed and reused.
  • Use a refillable water bottle and fill up in the dorm room or on campus at the water bottle refill stations.

Turn off the tap:

  • Students turning off the tap while brushing their teeth will save 7 litres of water every day!*
  • Being respectful of water consumption and your time in the shower will keep your roommate relationship positive and will contribute to saving more than 3 million litres of water during the school year.**

Say “no thanks” to plastic bags and single-use disposable containers:

  • Practice the three “R”s – Reduce, Reuse & Recycle
  • Use reusable shopping bags rather than single use plastic bags. (save $.05 at the grocery store!)
  • Use reusable hot beverage containers (save $.10 at all food outlets on campus – including Starbucks and Tim Horton’s) and invest in a reusable Booster Juice cup – get a free “booster” each time you use it (a $.50 value)

Get active with your transportation:

  • Ample bike parking and Tune-up Tuesdays means a bike-friendly campus and the Woodroffe location is easily accessible by bus transit.
  • Student Car Share makes it easy to be an Algonquin College student free from the expense and hassle of car-ownership.

Make smart buying choices:

  • Look for environmentally-friendly school supplies at Connections from Onyx and Green
  • Sign up for the terra20 Save for Change program and remember to stop by the store at Pinecrest Shopping Centre when you visit IKEA.
  • Consider environmental choices for your everyday needs – paper products that use recycled content, biodegradable dish soap, laundry detergent, shampoos and other toiletry items – choices such as these use fewer natural resources, are better for the ecology of the Ottawa River (our water supply), and have been shown to be healthier options.

Live the Algonquin College values: Caring, Learning, Integrity and Respect:

  • Learn about issues relating to social responsibility, the environment and sustainability
  • Show that you Care about tomorrow by demonstrating Integrity today
  • Respect the environment that we share and those that we share it with

*Assumes a student brushes their teeth twice each day **Assumes a reduction of 2 minutes for shower time as well as all students in Algonquin College residence participating res_move-in_4_2014 Green Up Res Life 2 Green Up Res Liferes_move-in_1_2014

College Initiative: Earth Day 2014

Make it Count for Earth Day is the theme for Earth Day Canada - #MIC4ED

Make it Count for Earth Day is the theme for Earth Day Canada – #MIC4ED

Started in 1970, and taking place on April 22 each year, Earth Day is a globally recognized day to reflect on the importance of the natural environment, its role in supporting human life and our responsibility to protect it.

For Earth Day 2014, Sustainable Algonquin invites all Algonquin College community members to seize the positive energy of springtime and this day. Here are suggestions for simple things to mark the day:



Top 3 Earth Day Tips for Students:

  1. Take the stairs instead of the elevator on campus or in your apartment building – the few minutes of exercise might be just what you need to stimulate circulation and prepare you for the next exam or study session (fewer greenhouse gas emissions with less electricity used too!)
  2. Follow @ACSustainable and look for a tweet on Tuesday, April 22 that you can “retweet to win” – a trendy and eco-friendly messenger bag provided by Connections (Congrats to our prize winners!)
    Onyx Green Messenger Bag is the prize for Earth Day student "retweets" from @ACSustainable

    Onyx Green Messenger Bag is the prize for Earth Day student “retweets” from @ACSustainable

  3. Wish someone “Happy Earth Day!” – guaranteed to make you smile!

Top 3 Earth Day Tips for Faculty & Staff:

  1. Give yourself a 10-minute Earth Day break to set up your work space to make it easy to “power down” at the end of every work day. Think about changing the location of your power bar so that you can easily reach it to ensure that monitors, speakers, headsets, personal printers and other electronics can be powered down with one button. (check out the amount of electricity, costs and greenhouse gas emissions are saved each year with 92% of staff doing this simple action every day – you may be surprised at how big of an impact results from such a simple action)
  2. Sign up for the terra20 and Algonquin College “Save for Change” program. Enjoy great choices for eco-friendly home and personal care items at this Ottawa-based retailer. The more you spend, the larger the fund for Ancillary Services to do more great work for better sustainability performance for the College
  3. Save some money, electricity and greenhouse gas emissions with your home electricity use – take advantage of the Ontario Power Authority Save on Energy coupon event. Don’t delay – these great offers are good until Sunday, April 27!

Make it Count for Earth Day and Earth Month

The 2014 Earth Month campaign focuses on 4 action categories – EAT, GROW, TRANSFORM and SHARE. The website http://makeitcount.earthday.ca/ has more information and opportunities to make your commitments. Using #MIC4ED in social media is another way to share individual actions you take for the environment and to compare with friends, colleagues and other people across the country.

Happy Earth Day!

College Initiative: 2014 Ottawa Campus Sustainability Week

Sustainability Week 2014 PosterThe 2014 Algonquin College Ottawa campus Sustainability Week is five days of grassroots sustainability-related activities designed to raise awareness, educate on important topics and motivate sustainability action in areas of: energy conservation, climate change, waste, social entrepreneurship, water security, divestment from fossil fuels, ecological impacts of personal care products, biodiversity, sustainable purchasing, innovation, green buildings and communities and more!

Monday, April 7, 2014, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Woodroffe, D Building Marketplace, Salon A – Free FairTrade coffee if you bring your mug, free popcorn & prizes! (forgot to bring your reusable mug? This is the perfect time to visit Connections and pick up your AC swag! Visit the store and check out the Sustainability Week specials!)

  • 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. – “Best of” Sustainability Videos Marathon
  • 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. – Student Sustainability Club hosts “Do the Math” from 350.org
  • 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. – Sustainability Fair – see student projects, provide your input on College sustainability projects, meet College and community sustainability leaders and more!
  • 2 p.m. – 3 p.m. – “In the Community” presentations – learn about sustainability projects in Ottawa – for students, staff and faculty
    • Saving for Change Program with terra20 – find out how you can save money while living a healthier, more sustainable life, AND benefit College sustainability initiatives led through Ancillary Services
    • Ottawa Renewable Energy Coop – learn about this local initiative to put more solar photovoltaic panels on more Ottawa rooftops and how you can participate through your RRSP savings
    • Ottawa Centre EcoDistrict – What is an ecodistrict? What is the project underway in downtown Ottawa? How can Algonquin College students get involved? This is your chance to get those questions answered!

Tuesday, April 8, 2014, E & D Building, Woodroffe

  • 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. – Water Awareness presented by See Earth Action Team for Sustainability and Student Sustainability Club
  • 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Savoir Fare and Run for Biodiversity invite you to purchase African culinary specialties and support the Algonquin Team running and walking for biodiversity

Wednesday, April 9, 2014 Woodroffe

As part of Sustainability Week, on Wednesday, April 9 General Arts and Science Approaches to Sustainability hosts information displays in Student Commons

As part of Sustainability Week, on Wednesday, April 9 General Arts and Science Approaches to Sustainability hosts information displays in Student Commons

Thursday, April 10, 2014, Woodroffe

  • 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. Lunch and Learn on Creating our Green Office Program ( Rosser Boardroom, RSVP required – for staff and faculty)
  • 1:30 p.m. The Isles project – site visit departure (for faculty and staff)
  • All Day! – Visit the Library and vote for sustainability projects that you think are worthwhile to bring to the attention of the Student Association and the Sustainable Algonquin Steering Committee for consideration – Pick up your “thank you” for voting at the Library desk (cool reusable cutlery set provided by Algonquin’s energy services provider, Siemens)
  • All Day! – Visit Savoir Fare and pick up your “Dirty Duck” Soap – a perfect example of sustainability in the curriculum and cradle-to-cradle thinking

Friday, April 11, 2014, Woodroffe, Applied Research Day

All week:

  • Visit Connections for in-store promotions, including 30% reusable drink-ware, must-read books and tea served in reusable mugs.
  • Remember to bring your reusable mug when purchasing hot beverages… save $.10 each time!
  • Visit the Library and vote for sustainability projects that you think are worthwhile to bring to the attention of the Student Association and the Sustainable Algonquin Steering Committee for consideration

Follow @ACSustainable for more program details!

College Initiative: Perth Sustainability Fair 2014

Perth Sustainability Fair 2014The annual Algonquin College Perth Campus Sustainability Fair, this year organized by second year Social Service Worker students, was held on campus on Thursday, April 3 from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Information booths:
Jeff Hodgins, The Table, The Jewel, EcoPerth, Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority, The Worm Lady, Friends of the Tay, Perth Farmer’s Market, from Little Rideau Farms, Sustainable Algonquin Steering Committee and others.

In addition, between 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Community Employment Services presented tips on how to secure employment.

Community members are invited to submit ideas on ways to make the campus a more sustainable place in our community. Entries can be sent to: shawvel@algonquincollege.com, or dropped off with the Student Association or Library.

JackFM 92.3 broadcasted live from campus during this event.

FairTrade coffee from Foodsmiths was enjoyed by all – in reusable coffee mugs!

College Initiative: Sustainability Days – Perth, Ottawa & Pembroke 2014

In 2013, students in the General Arts and Sciences ENV0007 Approaches to Sustainable Development course and their professor, Jay Smith initiated a Woodroffe campus Sustainability Day during which they showcased their course projects on various sustainability-related topics. The day’s activities were linked to the College’s spring Applied Research Day and a “week” branded as Sustainability Week was the result. It is conceived that a Sustainability Day could be an annual event as part of the ENVOO7 curriculum and that a Grassroots Sustainability Week could evolve into annual event. The event was supported by the Sustainable Algonquin Steering Committee as part of its mandate: “continue to create opportunities for students and staff to engage in grassroots activities that lead toward a more sustainable future.”

Sustainability Days at the Perth Campus have a strong history as days of campus-wide engagement and awareness on a variety of sustainability-related topics. For 2014, the day at the Perth campus is being planned by students. (this will be the 7th annual event)

The concept of Sustainability Days has spread to the Pembroke campus and for 2014, students in the Outdoor Adventure Naturalist program will lead the planning and execution of the day in Pembroke as part of their program curriculum.

Join in!

Students, faculty and staff are invited to take part in these events. Please see the invitation to participate from Sustainable Algonquin Steering Committee Co-Chairs.

Follow the links more details on events and activities and save these dates in your calendar:

College Initiative: Water Awareness 2014

 

March 21 Water DayIn conjunction with World Water Day (March 22nd), Water Awareness was the focus of activities in Student Commons on Friday, March 21 from 10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

The Water Awareness campaign, organized by S.E.A.T.S. (See Earth Action Team for Sustainability) and the student Sustainability Club, is a series of grassroots events designed to promote the responsible use of our water.

Participants completed a water awareness quiz and raced to win prizes – reusable hot/cold beverage cups; learned about important water issues relevant to the College community; and gained new information on how to take action.

Many students signed the pledge to reduce the amount of bottled water they buy, choosing instead to use refillable water bottles more often and make good use of the water bottle refill stations located around campus.

A few quick water facts shared with students, faculty and staff:

  • 53 gallons of water are used to make one latte
  • 700 gallons of water are used to manufacture one cotton t-shirt
  • A 1-litre plastic water bottle requires 3-5 litres of water to produce itWater awareness campaign cards cole DiegoLaya_March2014_2 display GeoffreyKasonde

The group will engage with the College community again on Tuesday, April 8 during Sustainability Week (10:00 – 12:00 noon) E Building, Woodroffe.

This campaign aligns with the College’s Sustainability Strategy Framework.

World Water Day

Groups leading initiative: See Earth Action Team for Sustainability and the student-led Sustainability Club

For more information, contact:

Jay Smith, Algonquin College
613-727-4723
smithj4@algonquincollege.com

College Initiative: ESCO2 Launch Event and Information Displays

Photo of January 21st Media Event

The ESCO2 Project, a multi-year initiative focusing on better energy performance at the College’s Woodroffe campus is underway.

The project official launch event held on January 21, 2014 featured information displays to assist College community members – staff, faculty and students make the connection to the ESCO2 project and answer key questions:

  • What is the ESCO2 project with Siemens?
  • What buildings will be impacted and when?
  • How does this project benefit the College?
  • What can I do as a student / as an employee to improve energy performance at the College and reduce our ecological footprint?
  • What can I do as a home owner / renter within Ottawa to improve energy performance in my home for cost savings and a smaller ecological footprint?
  • What is the College doing overall to be more sustainable?
  • How does the ESCO2 project relate to learning at the College?

Campus MapESCO 2 and Sustainability Strategy

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Department leading initiative: Physical Resources

For more information, contact:
Algonquin College
613-727-4723
info@algonquincollege.com

 

Case Study: Embedding Sustainability into the Curriculum

Photo: Stephen Murphy leading a workshop about integrating sustainability

Stephen Murphy, Curriculum Support Services, leading a workshop on integrating sustainability and internationalization.

More than offering a handful of ‘green’-focused courses or programs of study, Algonquin College is embedding sustainability in all its Ontario College Credential programs by leveraging existing processes for program renewal or development.