WINNIPEG, MB – The University of Winnipeg remains committed to the Kyoto Protocol and recognizes its obligation as a leader in sustainable practices and policies to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions of its facilities to 6% below 1990 levels by the end of 2012. UWinnipeg and its Board of Regents made this commitment in March 2005 as the result of the University’s OmniTRAX/Broe QUEST: North conference.
We meet the Kyoto Targets
“In light of the recent UN climate conference in Durban, it is important to note that UWinnipeg has worked tirelessly to ensure we meet the Kyoto targets as an example that it can be done,” expressed UWinnipeg President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Lloyd Axworthy. “It is important to lead by example and demonstrate that quantitative greenhouse gas emission reductions can be achieved in all sectors.”
Currently UWinnipeg is in the process of installing a hybrid heating system that will enable the University to replace higher-emitting natural gas with lower-emitting hydro electricity during off-peak times as it strives to improve the sustainability performance of its campus.
UWinnipeg passed its sustainability policies in 2006 and has made significant strides in incorporating sustainability into its governance structures. It created a Vice-President (Human Resources, Audit & Sustainability) and a Manager of Campus Sustainability, who work to coordinate ongoing improvements in sustainability governance and action. The University also supports scholarship related to climate change not only through the Richardson College for the Environment, but also throughout academic departments.
“UWinnipeg maintains and continues to enhance its commitment to sustainability,” explained UWinnipeg Vice-President Human Resources, Audit & Sustainability Laurel Repski. “The University employs greener building practices by ensuring that all new buildings are built to a minimum of LEED Silver standards, and by ensuring that our campus renovations contribute to enhancing our sustainability performance.”
Repski added that early in 2012, the Board of Regents will be presented with a new sustainability strategic plan that, if approved, will continue to support Kyoto goals, and position the University to be a sustainability leader.
