Sustainability Initiatives

Renewing Our Commitment to Sustainability: A Collaborative Effort at Saint Mary's University

At Saint Mary's University, sustainability isn't just a goal—it's a shared commitment woven into the fabric of our community. We are proud to announce our renewed participation in the AASHE STARS program, marking a pivotal moment in our journey toward environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

Throughout 2024, our dedicated staff and passionate students have engaged in a campus-wide effort to meticulously collect data across academic, engagement, operations, and administrative functions. This comprehensive initiative reflects our holistic approach to sustainability, aiming not only to meet but to exceed rigorous standards set by STARS.

By embracing the principles of transparency and accountability, we are poised to showcase our progress and achievements on a national stage. Through STARS, we highlight our advancements in sustainability research, innovative operational practices, community engagement initiatives, and effective administrative strategies.

Together, we are building a sustainable future for Saint Mary's University—one that inspires positive change, fosters environmental resilience and empowers our entire community to lead by example. Join us as we continue to push boundaries, driving forward towards a brighter, greener tomorrow.

From 2005 to 2019, the university achieved an overall emissions reduction of 36.8 percent. The recent conversion to a hot water heating system further bolstered this reduction to over 40 percent in 2022.

"Sustainability is deeply rooted in Saint Mary’s University's mission," affirms President Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray. "By integrating sustainability into our operations, we not only enhance efficiency and address financial stability but also reduce our environmental impact. I am proud to announce that Saint Mary’s University has surpassed its 2025 greenhouse gas reduction target, achieving over a 40 percent reduction ahead of schedule, marking a significant step towards our commitment to environmental stewardship."

This achievement reflects years of dedication and collaboration across the university community.

"This success is a testament to the visionary efforts of our faculty, staff, and facilities management team, supported by university leadership," notes Dennis Gillis, Senior Director of Facilities Management at Saint Mary’s. "Through initiatives such as North America’s tallest solar-integrated building, Saint Mary’s is setting a precedent in higher education for sustainability leadership."

Key initiatives driving emissions reductions include:

• Transitioning from a steam heating plant to a high-efficiency hot water system
• Switching from oil to natural gas for heating purposes
• Implementation of energy-efficient lighting technologies, including compact fluorescent and LED options
• Increasing reliance on renewable energy sources within Nova Scotia Power’s energy mix

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Aligned with provincial government guidelines under the Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act, Saint Mary’s University remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainability, driving positive environmental change and inspiring a sustainable future for generations to come. 

Saint Mary’s is known for the School of the Environment, which has become a hub for environmental education, research and outreach. Students learn to apply knowledge from various academic disciplines to solve problems related to the sustainability of the global environment in the face of human development. The curriculum is far-reaching, with courses in areas such as energy, pollution, environmental ethics, green chemistry, physical and human geography, and more.

The university also hosts leading research centres, including the Community Conservation Research Network, which focuses on community conservation and sustainable livelihoods, and TransCoastal Adaptations which helps build climate-resilient coastal communities and ecosystems through nature-based solutions and strategies.

In 2023, Saint Mary’s University announced a groundbreaking partnership with the Government of Canada, resulting in a significant $20 million investment in green technology and energy initiatives. This collaboration underscores our commitment to environmental sustainability and positions Saint Mary’s at the forefront of innovative solutions to address climate challenges.

This substantial funding will support cutting-edge research and development in green technology, advancing our efforts to reduce carbon footprints and enhance energy efficiency across campus and beyond. It marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing commitment to sustainability leadership, empowering our community to drive meaningful change through education, research, and practical application. Read more. 

Saint Mary’s University has been recognized as a Fair Trade Campus by Fairtrade Canada, affirming our commitment to ethical sourcing and global fairness. This designation highlights our dedication to supporting fair wages and sustainable practices within our community.

Being designated a Fair Trade Campus underscores Saint Mary’s ongoing efforts to promote social justice and environmental stewardship through our purchasing choices. By prioritizing Fairtrade certified products, we contribute to empowering farmers and workers worldwide.

Join us in celebrating this achievement as Saint Mary’s University continues to lead in ethical consumption and equitable trade practices.

Sobey School Chosen as 2024-2025 PRME Champions

The Sobey School of Business is proud to be a signatory to PRME, a United Nations initiative. The Principles for Responsible Management Education provide a framework for business schools to advance the broader cause of corporate social responsibility and incorporate universal values into curricula and research. PRME engages business and management schools to ensure they provide future leaders with the skills needed to balance economic and sustainability goals while drawing attention to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Sobey School of Business is excited to share that we have been selected once again as PRME Champions for the 2024-2025 cycle, PRME signatories who have committed to being leaders in responsible management education.