Are We Ready? Exploring Sustainability in Canada’s Colleges and Institutes
This report provides a snapshot of how CICan member institutions are leading in climate action, through exploring their climate and sustainability-related initiatives.
Discover insights into:
- How educational programs are evolving to include sustainability at their core, preparing students to meet the demands of a green economy.
- Examples of groundbreaking research initiatives that bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world environmental solutions.
- Detailed case studies on campus projects that exemplify sustainable design and construction, reducing carbon footprints, and enhancing community resilience.
- The benefits of collaboration between educational institutions and external partners, which amplify the impact of sustainability initiatives.
Key Insights from the Report
A Network of Change
Canada’s educational institutions form the backbone of the national strategy to transition to a low-carbon economy. With over 680 locations nationwide, they are uniquely positioned to influence and implement sustainable practices that resonate from classrooms to communities.
Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Development
Through cutting-edge applied research, colleges and institutes are developing and deploying technologies and methodologies that address critical environmental challenges, from reducing greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions to promoting energy-efficient building designs.
Indigenous Perspectives on Sustainability
The report highlights the growing incorporation of Indigenous knowledges and practices in sustainability education, fostering a more inclusive and holistic approach to environmental stewardship.
Leadership in Green Infrastructure
Showcased initiatives reveal how Canadian institutions are not just participants but leaders in creating sustainable campuses, with commitments to significant greenhouse gases (GHG) reductions and pioneering zero-carbon facilities.
Real-World Examples
Coast Mountain College – Field Schools
Experience how Coast Mountain College integrates local Indigenous knowledge with environmental education, offering students hands-on learning that respects and reflects traditional ways of knowing and sustainable practices.
Humber College – Leadership in Action
Discover how institutions like Humber College are transforming their campuses with ambitious projects. These include large-scale retrofits and innovative energy solutions that serve as blueprints for others to follow.
Did you know? Over 95% of Canadians and 86% of Indigenous people live within 50km of a college or institute. This proximity emphasizes the critical role these institutions play in integrating sustainable practices across the nation.
Ready to Dive Deeper?
This report is more than just a document; it’s a call to action for educators, policymakers, and industry leaders to collaborate and innovate. By embracing the strategies and successes detailed within, we can collectively enhance our resilience and readiness in the face of environmental challenges.
Discover the full scope of sustainability initiatives, educational transformations, and the vital role that Canada’s colleges and institutes play in shaping a greener future.