Conestoga will officially launch its inaugural Sustainability Action Plan on October 28, marking a significant step forward in accelerating and amplifying sustainable impact across campus facilities, academics and research, leadership, and community engagement.
The plan outlines 27 key actions designed to embed sustainability into the fabric of the college. "As we look to the future, we recognize both the opportunity and the responsibility to emerge stronger from times of uncertainty. That's why we're reaffirming our commitment to sustainability," said Michelle Chretien, Vice-President, Research.
Conestoga has long been active in this space, from serving as a PRME (Principles for Responsible Management Education) Champion to investing in green buildings.
"We recognize that sustainability is the future, and we're committed to equipping our students with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to contribute meaningfully to a sustainable future - while also understanding the importance of leading by example," added Paula Gouveia, Vice-President, Academic & International.
The 27 actions were shaped by input from Conestoga community members, including employees and students, grounded in comprehensive research, and further refined through senior leadership review.
"This inclusive process was essential to ensuring the plan reflects our community's aspirations and helped foster meaningful buy-in throughout its development," said Laura Matheson, Director, Sustainability.
Ownership of the actions spans all college departments, making this a truly collaborative effort that will help foster a sustainable mindset across the organization.
Progress will be tracked annually through a public report, highlighting successes and identifying opportunities for improvement - all with an eye toward amplifying meaningful impact.
Later this fall, a new sustainability website will launch, serving as a central hub for updates, resources, and engagement opportunities.
"We're grateful to the campus community for their support in developing the plan and for their continued participation in embedding sustainability across the college," said Matheson.
On October 28, Conestoga will celebrate the release of its Sustainability Action Plan by launching the college's first micro-forest project. This initiative is being developed in partnership with Sustainable Waterloo Region, a local non-profit and social enterprise, and is supported through funding from the CICan Campus Climate micro-grant program.
To learn more about the college's Sustainability Action Plan, join the launch webinar on October 29 and view the launch video.
For more information
299 Doon Valley Drive
Kitchener Ontario
Canada N2G 4M4
www.conestogac.on.ca/
