This year marks the 25th anniversary of UBC’s Sustainability Coordinators Program!
Since its inception, it has provided a space for folks to gain information and resources to advance sustainability projects in their workplaces, ultimately contributing to the CAP2030 goals. The program was formed in 1999 and supports UBC staff and faculty to dedicate paid time each month to take collective action against climate change and contribute to a more sustainable campus. With participants joining from a range of disciplines, the program champions inter-departmental collaboration and knowledge sharing. Participants can receive funding for projects that focus on a broad range of topics within sustainability, from food systems to waste management to outreach programs.
To commemorate this grand milestone, the Sustainability Coordinators (SCs) gathered at St. John’s College for an evening of collaboration and celebration. The event brought together coordinators that have been part of the program for nearly two decades with the newest members and everyone in between, creating an atmosphere of inspiration, ingenuity, and community. Taryn Alessandra Cigagna, Manager of Climate and Sustainability Engagement, welcomed participants, stating, “Sustainability is not just a path we walk on, but instead a relationship to which we tend, with one other and the earth.” Taryn highlighted the continued contributions of the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓-speaking Musqueam people to the practices and ideas of sustainability.
Longstanding SCs were invited to share their journeys and advice with the group. Karen Reid, Operations Manager, along with her colleague Dan Fayant, Facility Manager, from the Michael Smith Laboratories (MSL) presented their various energy-saving and waste reduction initiatives with the audience, leaving them with tips on working in sustainability, sharing, “it takes people, it takes heart, and honestly takes a culture to make change together”.
The program has come this far as a result of the SC’s collective efforts and grit, which John Madden, Director of Sustainability and Engineering, encapsulated perfectly, “it's one thing to have lofty plan targets, but it’s another thing to demonstrate the progress being made against those commitments, which is what we’re doing here”.
The SC Program continues to welcome new participants. Apply here to join the program and gain access to community, educational events, and funding opportunities like the Workplace Sustainability Fund. You can also get in touch with us at sc.program@ubc.ca!