This year, the Students’ Union is going green. From our events to our business operations, SUstainability is what we’re all about. We’re taking big steps to reduce our eco-footprint and we want to help you do the same.
Currently, the Students’ Union Sustainability Board is funding a composting pilot project, revamping its sustainability policy and using recommendations from last year’s waste audit to reduce the organic, plastic and paper waste generated by MacHall.
When it comes to sustainability, everyone can make a difference and students are often among the most engaged, conscientious and innovative groups. In spite of their enthusiasm though, a lack of funding or resources can prevent students from getting their projects off the ground. That’s where the SU comes in, with two new events designed to foster community and action around sustainability.
Green Cafe is a casual venue for members of the campus community to discuss and collaborate around sustainability and it will help participants gain information and resources to assist with project development and implementation. Representatives from the SU and the Office of Sustainability will be present to answer questions, offer advice and facilitate discussions. If you have an eco-friendly project you’ve always wanted to try, questions about how to get involved or take action on a particular issue, or simply want to meet other environmentally-minded people, join us in That Empty Space every second Tuesday to help us drink coffee and save the planet.
Our second project, My Market, is a student-led farmer’s market happening the first Tuesday of every month in the MSC North and South Courtyards. Throughout the day, fresh produce and fair trade goods will be sold. Unlike a traditional farmer’s market, however, students are invited to sell and trade their own secondhand items, arts and crafts, garage sale style. Student artists can book time or space to perform or sell their own work and SU clubs can book tables to advertise for events and attract new members. Contact uofcmarket@gmail.com for questions and bookings.
Last but not least, the SU has a Sustainability Fund that provides students with grants for their own projects, with a downloadable application form on our website. Hopefully, with all these exciting opportunities to get involved, you can join us in going green.