The Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB) has launched a new Sustainability & Climate Action Plan (2025-2030), setting a clear path to reduce environmental impact and build greener schools and communities.
The plan focuses on seven areas: energy, waste, water, procurement, transportation, engagement, and environmental leadership. Together, these priorities will help us:
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Reduce energy intensity by 12% by 2028 (from our 2023 baseline).
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Transition toward low-carbon heating and renewable energy.
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Standardize recycling and composting across all schools.
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Expand real-time water monitoring to cut waste.
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Integrate sustainable design into new schools and renovations.
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Support active travel through safe walking and biking routes.
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Empower students and staff to lead sustainability initiatives in their schools and communities.
The plan "highlights some of the many ways the UGDSB is decreasing our carbon footprint, conserving energy and reducing the resources needed to operate our schools and work spaces. This includes the installation of solar panels and heat pumps, reducing water consumption and waste, promoting active transportation, and launching environmental leadership programs," said UGDSB Director of Education, Peter Sovran.
The Sustainability & Climate Action Plan builds on UGDSB's strong history of environmental initiatives, including solar installations, LED retrofits, and outdoor learning programs.
Read the full plan here: https://www.ugdsb.ca/page/sustainability-and-climate-action-plan
