The University of Windsor has achieved a major climate action milestone, cutting its greenhouse gas emissions by 47 per cent from 2019 levels and surpassing its 2030 goal six years early, according to 2024 emissions data.
"This represents one of the most significant environmental milestones in the institution's sustainability journey to date," noted President and Vice-Chancellor, Robert Gordon.
"It is a true testament to the dedication of our cross-campus operational and academic teams, including the students who helped lead the way. It shows what is possible when a community unites around a shared commitment to sustainability."
Aligned with the UWindsor's Carbon Neutrality Plan and the Aspire strategic plan's commitment to environmental sustainability, the reduction reflects a multi-year campus-wide effort involving strategic capital investments, operational efficiencies, and forward-looking energy planning.
"Internal data reporting shows GHG emissions have dropped from approximately 26,300 tonnes CO e in 2019 to 13,838 tonnes CO e in 2024," said Vice President, Finance and Operations, Gillian Heisz.
One of the more impactful sustainability initiatives contributing to this progress was the installation of a hybrid electric-steam chiller in 2023, located within the Energy Conversion Centre on Patricia Street.
"The chiller is a unique energy saving solution designed to operate primarily on electricity, switching to steam only during peak demand periods throughout the year," explained Danny Castellan, Manager of Facility Planning, Renovation, and Construction.
"It supports the elimination of carbon emissions by reducing natural gas consumption, while providing operational cost savings to the University annually."
Additional projects contributing to the emissions reduction include lighting upgrades, improvements to the HVAC, and building improvement projects, such as the upgrades to the Human Kinetics Building, the Dennis Fairall Fieldhouse, Essex Hall, and Leddy West.
Sustainability has also been a guiding principle in the development of new campus spaces, including more recently construction on the Toldo Lancer Centre, 300 Ouellette Building, Rodzik Hall, and more.
Further supporting sustainable transportation, in 2023 the University installed the first set of publicly facing electric vehicle charging stations and a secure bike shelter, promoting community members to use low carbon modes of transportation.
While considerable progress has been made, the University remains committed to becoming fully carbon neutral by 2050.
"This is a step in the right direction," said Nadia Harduar, Sustainability Officer for the University of Windsor. "But there is more work to be done."
"We need to keep evaluating all projects through a sustainability lens, while looking for innovative ways to reduce emissions even further."
Harduar noted that one of the biggest challenges will come with addressing indirect emissions, which occur outside of the University's direct control but still are a result of its day-to-day operations.
"There are significant indirect emissions we need to tackle like commuting, business travel, and waste disposal," she said. "These are harder to manage, but they're a critical part of our path to carbon neutrality."
This milestone marks a pivotal moment in the University of Windsor's climate action efforts, demonstrating the tangible results of sustained investment, innovation, and collaboration across campus.
For more information about Campus Sustainability, how to get involved, and current initiatives please visit Environmental Sustainability @ UWindsor.
