This strategy is building on a strong foundation. McMaster’s first campus-wide Sustainability Report provided many examples of how our university has shown commitment to the conservation of natural resources, creating sustainable food systems, and responsible investments. McMaster builds and operates its campus with sustainability in mind, including water, energy, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and waste reduction initiatives. This strategy will increase and evolve these efforts to achieve that next level of environmental, social and economic sustainability our community requires of us.

Our university’s operations and administrative teams collaborate with McMaster students on experiential-learning projects that shape our sustainability-related decisions. The work of our researchers informs how leaders think about climate change, human health and well-being, locally and around the world. We will look to this world-class knowledge and collaborative opportunities with our students, researchers, and community to help bring our Sustainability Strategy to life. 

I would like to thank those involved in the development of this inaugural strategy, including the team members from the Office of Sustainability in Facility Services, members of the McMaster Sustainability Advisory Council, and the many other students, faculty and staff members who provided input and feedback during this process.