Students finding sustainable solutions

Earth Day is right around the corner, so going green is top of mind this week. But students in McMaster’s Academic Sustainability Programs focus on integrating environmental, social and economic sustainability all year round.

The largest of the Academic Sustainability programs is the Sustainable Future Program, which consists of four interdisciplinary courses that provide undergraduate students from all faculties with the opportunity for student-led, community-based and experiential learning about sustainability.

“We’ve seen a growing demand for academic programming focussed on sustainability,” says Kate Whalen, Senior Manager, Academic Sustainability Programs. “It’s a great fit for McMaster because we have the opportunity to use our campus as a living laboratory.”

The Sustainable Future Program started in 2013 with only 97 students in one course but has since grown to over 600 students in four courses.

In addition to the Sustainable Future Program, students can also take part in the Sustainability Internship Program, or the Interdisciplinary Minor in Sustainability.

Some examples of on-campus projects completed through the programs include the McMaster Teaching & Community Garden, Bike Repair Station and Permeable Paving. Every year, the students have new ideas and initiatives, so the learning experience is different every time.

Information on all Academic Sustainability programs and related opportunities can be found at asp.mcmaster.ca or by contacting asp@mcmaster.ca.

The various Academic Sustainability programs are made possible through collaboration with Faculties from across campus with support from faculty, staff, community members, local organizations and the City of Hamilton.