| Overall Rating | Gold - expired |
|---|---|
| Overall Score | 74.42 |
| Liaison | Mary-Lee Townsend |
| Submission Date | Feb. 1, 2018 |
| Executive Letter | Download |
Western University
PA-2: Sustainability Planning
| Status | Score | Responsible Party |
|---|---|---|
|
3.50 / 4.00 |
Connor
Donald Sustainability Coordinator Facilities Management |
Does the institution have a published strategic plan or equivalent guiding document that includes sustainability at a high level? :
A brief description of how the institution’s strategic plan or equivalent guiding document addresses sustainability:
“Western’s Institutional Principles and Values- Sustainability: We will leverage our intellectual capacity to solve pressing environmental problems, while minimizing the impact of our campus community on the environment and educating students to be leaders in the environment and sustainability movement.”
A copy of the strategic plan:
The website URL where the strategic plan is publicly available:
Does the institution have a published sustainability plan (apart from what is reported above)? :
A copy of the sustainability plan:
The website URL where the sustainability plan is publicly available:
Does the institution have a published climate action plan (apart from what is reported above)? :
A copy of the climate action plan:
The website URL where the climate action plan is publicly available:
Does the institution have other published plans that address sustainability or include measurable sustainability objectives (e.g. campus master plan, physical campus plan, diversity plan, human resources plan)? :
A list of other published plans that address sustainability, including public website URLs (if available):
Yes, Campus Master Plan.
http://president.uwo.ca/pdf/strategic-plan/MasterPlanFinalSept-07.pdf
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Curriculum?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Curriculum and the published plans in which each objective is included:
The curriculum aspect of sustainability is located within the sustainability strategic plan:
http://sustainability.uwo.ca/documents/strategy/SustainableWesternExperience.pdf
The Measurable aspects of this document include: Creation of a Sustainability Minor by 2017 as a path toward creating both a major and a second-entry undergraduate degree in sustainability by 2022.
- By 2017 a discussion will be initiated on the opportunity to evolve the Centre for Environment and Sustainability into a School of Sustainability.
- By 2017, Steps will be initiated to establish an interdisciplinary introductory course in sustainability which would be made available to all students entering Western.
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Research?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Research and the published plans in which each objective is included:
The research aspect of sustainability is located within the sustainability strategic plan: http://sustainability.uwo.ca/documents/strategy/SustainableWesternExperience.pdf
“As a research facility with strong intellectual capacity, Western University will investigate pressing issues and propose effective solutions to environmental problems.
This can be done by:
- Internal grant competitions include sustainability aspects of research in their
evaluation criteria.
- Sustainability research initiatives utilize Interdisciplinary Development Initiatives
Program (IDIs) funding
- High-achieving student research initiatives for solving sustainability challenges are
incented and profiled.
- Trans-disciplinary research projects by graduate students and fourth-year
undergraduate projects are initiated and encouraged.
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Campus Engagement?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Campus Engagement and the published plans in which each objective is included:
The campus engagement aspect of sustainability is located within the sustainability strategic plan: http://sustainability.uwo.ca/documents/strategy/SustainableWesternExperience.pdf
“Environment and sustainability is the responsibility of everyone at Western. Success requires the collective action of the University community through long-term planning, shared learning, grassroots activities, and institutional leadership”
The measurable objectives include:
- Sustainability values are promoted across departments, faculties, in residence and in presidential communications.
- Awareness and engagement in sustainability is embraced by the Western
community.
- Sustainability is a major student learning initiative within Western’s residences and
in orientation week activities.
- A sustainability fund designed to encourage sustainability initiatives on campus
is explored as a mechanism to drive increased engagement and advancement of
sustainability efforts at Western.
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Public Engagement?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Public Engagement and the published plans in which each objective is included:
The public engagement aspect of sustainability is located within the sustainability strategic plan: http://sustainability.uwo.ca/documents/strategy/SustainableWesternExperience.pdf
“The University recognizes that it is part of a larger community and will engage with that community to promote sustainable practices and to identify and address opportunities and challenges that may have impact beyond our campus boundaries.”
The measurable objectives include:
- The University has developed forms of recognition for students, staff, faculty or
alumni participating in curricular or extra-curricular programs in sustainability – such
as a formal or informal certificate offering for sustainability.
- Increased opportunities are available, to the Western community and beyond, for
non-credit sustainability courses and programs
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Air & Climate?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Air & Climate and the published plans in which each objective is included:
The Air & Climate aspect of sustainability is located within the sustainability strategic plan:
http://sustainability.uwo.ca/documents/strategy/SustainableWesternExperience.pdf
- Main campus’ direct greenhouse gas emissions will be reduced below 2009 levels.
- A 10-year master plan for energy and water management drives conservation, construction and retrofit efforts.
- There is a reduced need for vehicle-based transportation through and on campus.
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Buildings?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Buildings and the published plans in which each objective is included:
As per Western’s 2014-2019 Conservation & Demand Management Plan, Western University will ensure that all new building construction projects and renovation projects will pursue LEED Silver standards.
Within the University's 2014-2019 Conservation & Demand Management Plan, it reads: Best efforts should be made to undertake design and construction at a level to achieve a minimum of LEED Silver certification, noting there may be renovation projects where this is not achievable without significant additional expenditures. In this case, the Vice-President (Resources & Operations) shall have the final recommendation. This statement does not mean that formal certification will be sought.
Estimated cost: 1.8% additional to the baseline project budget
Estimated savings: 20% in annual operating costs
Length of time the measure will be in place: Indefinitely
Additionally, our Sustainable Design Guidelines (waiting for approval) will ensure that any new construction and major renovation project is built to, at least, LEED Silver standards if not more.
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Energy?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Energy and the published plans in which each objective is included:
Western has developed a conservation and demand management guide (2014-2019):
http://energy.uwo.ca/wp-content/themes/western-energy/_/inc/Approved%20Western's%20CDM%20Plan%20(2014-2019).pdf
This plan ensures resources are managed efficiently and appropriate standards are in place to minimize operational impacts on the environment. Within this guide it is stated that:
- Goals include achieving a 9% reduction in energy use intensity [ekWh/m2] below 2012's levels; and reduce overall energy usage to below 4% compared to 2012.
- An example of a proposed organizational measure is that all energy and water efficiency and conservation are an integral component of all construction and renovation projects, with an estimated savings of 20% in annual operational costs.
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Food & Dining?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Food & Dining and the published plans in which each objective is included:
The food and dining aspect of sustainability is located within the sustainability strategic plan:
http://sustainability.uwo.ca/documents/strategy/SustainableWesternExperience.pdf also see: http://hospitalityservices.uwo.ca/sustainability_actionplan.pdf
Western will minimize its ecological footprint while enhancing ecosystem services on campus. This will be an area of focus for Hospitality Services on campus.
- Access to healthy, local, organic and fair trade food with vegan and vegetarian
options are widely available throughout campus.
- Opportunities for on-campus food production are harnessed.
- Opportunities are explored to increase the number of projects that provide cost savings
by reducing Western’s overall environmental impact.
- A campus-wide effort for the achievement of zero waste status is initiated.
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Grounds?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Grounds and the published plans in which each objective is included:
The grounds aspect of sustainability is located within the sustainability strategic plan: http://sustainability.uwo.ca/documents/strategy/SustainableWesternExperience.pdf
Within this plan, it is stated that “PACES is guided by the following principles: Utilizing ecological landscaping methods and preserving green space”
The University also has outcomes of:
- Natural habitat on campus is protected and enhanced, where appropriate.
- The campus connection to the Thames River is celebrated and drives involvement in restoration efforts.
- Continuing to follow Environment Canada's Salt Reduction Plan for large businesses and organizations
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Purchasing?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Purchasing and the published plans in which each objective is included:
Procurement Services has developed a sustainable Procurement Policy to ensure that those responsible for the procurement of products will contribute towards a sustainable campus. This can be achieved through the purchasing of products that meet a comprehensive range of sustainability criteria. Procurement Services is committed to facilitating the responsible acquisition of goods for all Western departments.
http://uwo.ca/finance/forms/docs/procurement/Sustainable%20Purchasing%20Guide.pdf
The university has outcomes of:
- Sustainability in procurement will be heightened as campus requisitioners build sustainability into their purchasing decisions and policies.
- Opportunities for incorporating life-cycle accounting into purchasing decisions on campus are identified and integrated.
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Transportation?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Transportation and the published plans in which each objective is included:
One aspect of campus transportation sustainability is located within the sustainability strategic plan:
http://sustainability.uwo.ca/documents/strategy/SustainableWesternExperience.pdf
Within this plan, the university has goals of:
- There is a reduced need for vehicle-based transportation through and on campus.
- Partnerships with the City of London will facilitate increased access for bike and
pedestrian travel to and from campus.
Most recently, Western students engaged in a feasibility study for the installation of Electric Vehicle charging stations, and two of our newest buildings (WIRB and ThreeC Plus) will have two charging stations each.
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Waste?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Waste and the published plans in which each objective is included:
The waste aspect of sustainability is located within the sustainability strategic plan: http://sustainability.uwo.ca/documents/strategy/SustainableWesternExperience.pdf
The University commits to developing institutional practices that promote sustainability while reducing the use of resources and the production of waste and hazardous materials.
This will be made possible by encouraging:
• Reduction of use of inputs
• Reduction of outputs through recycling and reuse
• Focusing on life cycle management of resources and waste products
Western has excelled in its waste reduction strategies. Facilities Management estimates
that of the existing waste on campus, 15% are coffee cups and a further 20% are
items that are recyclable. Opportunities abound for Western to improve on its already
impressive performance in Waste Management.
The University also has objectives for this, which includes becoming Zero Waste by 2022. We are working on that goal through composting program expansion, as well as the recent switch to now recycle all plastics 1-7 (as opposed to just 1, 2, 4 and 5) and coffee cups.
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Water?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Water and the published plans in which each objective is included:
As per Western University's Conservation and Demand Management Plan (2014-2019)
- Western will reduce water use intensity (m3/m2) by 8% below 2012 levels by 2019
- Western will optimize the chilled water distribution system by installing new valves, improving the delta T, removing unnecessary pumps and improving the chilled water bridges saving the university approximate 4,772,400 kWh per annum
- Ongoing updating and installation of metering equipment continues to identify areas of focus for water management on campus.
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Diversity & Affordability?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Diversity & Affordability and the published plans in which each objective is included:
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Investment & Finance?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Investment & Finance and the published plans in which each objective is included:
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Wellbeing & Work?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Wellbeing & Work and the published plans in which each objective is included:
The wellbeing-and-work aspect of sustainability is located within the sustainability strategic plan:
http://sustainability.uwo.ca/documents/strategy/SustainableWesternExperience.pdf
The University will continue to provide quality education and services while progressively reducing negative environmental, health and economic impacts. Through active citizenship, teaching and research, we will ensure the health of our planet and its people for the long term. Every member of the Western community - including students, faculty and staff -will have the opportunity for a sustainable and healthy working, living and learning environment.
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address other areas (e.g. arts and culture or technology)?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address other areas and the published plans in which each objective is included:
Does the institution have a formal statement in support of sustainability endorsed by its governing body (e.g. a mission statement that specifically includes sustainability and is endorsed by the Board of Trustees)? :
The formal statement in support of sustainability:
The institution’s definition of sustainability (e.g. as included in a published statement or plan):
Is the institution an endorser or signatory of the following?:
| Yes or No | |
| The Earth Charter | --- |
| The Higher Education Sustainability Initiative (HESI) | --- |
| ISCN-GULF Sustainable Campus Charter | --- |
| Second Nature’s Carbon Commitment (formerly known as the ACUPCC), Resilience Commitment, and/or integrated Climate Commitment | --- |
| The Talloires Declaration (TD) | Yes |
| UN Global Compact | No |
| Other multi-dimensional sustainability commitments (please specify below) | Yes |
A brief description of the institution’s formal sustainability commitments, including the specific initiatives selected above:
The Paris Pledge
The website URL where information about the programs or initiatives is available:
Additional documentation to support the submission:
Data source(s) and notes about the submission:
The information presented here is self-reported. While AASHE staff review portions of all STARS reports and institutions are welcome to seek additional forms of review, the data in STARS reports are not verified by AASHE. If you believe any of this information is erroneous or inconsistent with credit criteria, please review the process for inquiring about the information reported by an institution or simply email your inquiry to stars@aashe.org.