Universities have a unique role to play in global efforts to ensure a sustainable future for our planet and the generations to come. At the University of Ottawa, we are committed to doing our part.
Governance
As we endeavour to find a balanced approach to sustainability, we will work with our partners to create policies, rules, and regulations that respect our social, economic, and environmental realities.
Sustainability related policies
Environmental Management and Sustainability
This policy outlines steps to ensure that the University of Ottawa manages its operations responsibly, in a way that will protect and sustain the natural environment.
Ethical Purchasing
This policy defines the principles and responsibilities pertaining to the conduct of business affairs at the University.
Supply of Good and Services
Section 15 – Green or Environmental Procurement
- This section stipulates that environmental considerations must be taken with the procurement of goods. These include energy-efficient and greenhouse-friendly products, products that are water efficient and reduce water use, less-toxic products.
Section 16 – Ethical Procurement
- This section stipulates that procurement of goods must be done in a social responsible manner as outlined in policy 98.
Other procedures
The University subscribes to various sustainable practices to help create a greener campus and a greener supply chain. Here are a couple of the themes that are found in our informal policies.
Plastic Bag Free Campus
The University of Ottawa is a plastic bag free campus. This means that you will only see plastic bags if they are biodegradable or if there is a charge to use them. We encourage everyone to carry reusable bags whenever possible.
Bottled Water Free Campus
The University of Ottawa was the first institution in Ontario to become a bottled water free campus. Although there are many environmental benefits to reducing the resources required to bottle water, there are also social benefits to increasing the affordability and access to water.
LEED Silver Design Standard
The University of Ottawa builds all its major buildings to a LEED Silver certification standard.
Fair Trade Campus
The University of Ottawa was the 7th Fair Trade Campus designated in Canada. Most of the coffee and tea, as well as some of the chocolate on campus is certified Fair Trade.
Sustainable Campus Committee
The University of Ottawa's Campus Sustainability Committee oversees progress towards the Campus Sustainability Plan.
Learn more about the SUSCOM