Ontario Tech recognized again as a post-secondary leader in environmental responsibility
University’s purchasing practices honoured by the Association for Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education
October 9, 2024
Ontario Tech continues to build on its sustainability accomplishments with the latest recognition in the Institutional Highlights section of the 2024 Sustainable Campus Index (SCI) report, for purchasing practices.
Compiled by the Philadelphia-based Association for Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE), the SCI recognizes top-performing universities and colleges by country, institution type, and in 17 sustainability impact areas, as measured by the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Rating System (STARS). STARS helps institutions measure, report and strengthen their contributions to global sustainability. In 2023, Ontario Tech received a Gold rating in AASHE’s STARS. The Gold rating is valid through 2026.
Collectively, institutions spend billions of dollars annually on goods and services such as paper, cleaning products and electronics. Each purchasing decision represents an opportunity for institutions to choose environmentally and socially preferable products and services, and support companies with strong commitments to sustainability.
In the 2024 SCI, Ontario Tech placed fifth among 355 measured institutions in the purchasing practices impact area, receiving a score of 94.5 per cent. By comparison, the average purchasing practice score in 2024 was 53.6 per cent.
Fairtrade Campus Designation
One of the ways Ontario Tech prioritizes sustainable purchasing choices is by maintaining a Fairtrade Campus Designation from Fairtrade Canada. The designation recognizes the university’s dedication to promoting fair-trade practices and sustainability on campus. Fairtrade represents a commitment to support farmers who produce the crops we consume. All coffee and tea served at Hunter’s Kitchen in the university’s Business and Information Technology Building, and at campus-catered events, is Fairtrade-certified.
The Fairtrade movement:
- Guarantees minimum price and fair wages to farmers.
- Improves working conditions for farmers.
- Improves living conditions of families in developing countries.
- Funds community development projects (health care, sanitation, schools and building vital infrastructure).
- Sets standards to protect the environment through sustainable agricultural practices.
Ontario Tech’s Fairtrade Month activities during October
To continue advancing environmental practices on campus, the university’s Office of Campus Infrastructure and Sustainability (OCIS) is hosting Fairtrade Month events in October, including two on-campus Fairtrade birthday parties to celebrate Fairtrade Canada’s 30th anniversary.
- Downtown Oshawa campus location:
- When: Tuesday, October 22 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Where: Charles Hall, second-floor atrium
- North Oshawa campus location:
- When: Wednesday, October 23 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Where: Shawenjigewining Hall, Tribute Communities Lobby
Ontario Tech’s commitment to sustainable purchasing practices extends to other areas of operation
Beyond Fairtrade, the university’s sustainable food-purchasing practices include developing weekly menus for on- campus food services that focus on healthy food choices, and ensure minimal waste.
OCIS is consulted on service contracts to ensure language includes accurate information on minimum environmental standards, certifications and sustainability best practices. The university’s business partners must include transparent information on their commitment to environmental preservation and sustainability regarding practices, vehicles, and products used in the fulfilment of services; they must also show proof of environmental certifications.
Sustainable vehicle fleet purchases
In 2023, the university upgraded three of its fleet vehicles to sustainable alternatives, including two fully electric cargo vans and a hybrid SUV.
Read the full 2024 Sustainable Campus Index report.
Quote
“Being a Fairtrade campus is just one of the many ways in which Ontario Tech University showcases its commitment to sustainability through procurement. Whether we’re upgrading our fleet vehicles or purchasing cleaning materials, sustainability is at the forefront of decision-making at the university.”
- Isabel Savransky, Asset and Sustainability Planner, Office of Campus Infrastructure and Sustainability, Ontario Tech University
