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Operational sustainability plans and initiatives

Programs

The Office of Sustainability uses many strategies and campus initiatives to reach our sustainability goals. Our principles focus on biodiversity conservation, efficient use of natural resources, and pollution prevention. We are always working to innovate, engage, and educate when it comes to making our campuses more sustainable.

transforming climate action panelists talk to crowd

Monitoring

Several sustainability indicators are monitored at different intervals from hourly to yearly. Dalhousie participates in AASHE STARS and publicly reports every three years on operational indicators. We collect data via our Annual Sustainability Survey. Indicators include metrics on:

  • Heating
  • Cooling
  • Electricity
  • Water
  • Commuting
  • Food
  • Waste
  • Emissions
  • Curriculum
  • Student Engagement

Behaviour

Campaigns and events are run throughout the year by the Office of Sustainability and other groups on campus including the DSU Sustainability Office, the College of Sustainability, and others.

Retrofit & New construction projects

The Office of Sustainability works with Facilities Management and other partners to implement projects. Future plans include major energy and water upgrades to buildings and systems, native plantings, enhanced waste bin design, green building construction, and improvements to commuting infrastructure. 

Transportation

Dalhousie supports balanced, multi-modal transportation options and uses Transportation Demand Management (TDM) strategies, offering incentives and programs to reduce single occupant vehicle trips. 

Access sustainable modes of transportation
A man boards a Halifax Transit bus.

Natural environment

At Dal, we strive to recognize and support the natural environment as an important and valued space on university campuses. The crucial campus and societal value that natural spaces provide is significant — from social and health benefits to ecological and economic benefits. 

Find out how Dal is cultivating natural environments on campus
A close-up photo of a bee pollinating a golden flower.

Energy, water, and green buildings

In addition to the positive environmental impacts of creating green buildings, an organization’s operating costs can be substantially reduced, and human health can be improved through improved indoor air quality and reduced levels of toxic substances in the building process.

Explore Dal's green buildings
Side view of solar panels and grass on a green roof.

Climate change

Limiting rapid climate change will require significant and sustained reductions of greenhouse gas emissions. Universities and colleges play an important societal role in climate-related research, teaching, and engagement.

Learn about ongoing climate change projects at Dal
Rows of solar panels on a stone and gravel.

Sustainable procurement and waste management

The products we consume daily – in our homes and workplaces - have a major impact on the environment. We must consider the entire life cycle of every product we use.

Find out how to procure and dispose products sustainably
A collection of green compost bins.

Food

Dalhousie University aims to provide campus foods and services that are environmentally, socially, and ethically responsible, encourage healthy eating, support local food systems, and celebrate learning through events and educational programs.

Access sustainable food
A woman looks at prices of fruit in a grocery isle.