Sustainability strategic goals
Vanier College committed in the 2021-2026 Strategic Plan to become carbon neutral by 2030 or 2050 at the latest. This goal is aligned with the 2016 Paris Agreement for global signatories to be net-zero by 2050 in order to keep global temperature increase at 1.5°C.
Vanier's greenhouse gas emissions
Greenhouse gas emissions are the by-product of daily human activities and are categorized into 3 scopes by the IPCC. Vanier College’s carbon neutrality goal refers to scopes 1 and 2, as these are the scopes that Vanier has a direct influence on through what we can control. Vanier College is committed to reducing its scope 3 emissions, although they are more difficult to measure and control.
Scope 1 represents the college's direct emissions, i.e. GHG emissions that are generated through the college’s direct operations. These emissions can be mobile (e.g. a vehicle) or fixed (e.g. a building heating system). The primary sources of Vanier’s scope 1 emissions are natural gas (for heating the college), our vehicle fleet, and propane for our landscaping and snow clearing machines.
Scope 2 represents emissions related to electricity. Given the origin of the electricity, which is produced by Hydro-Québec, these emissions are relatively low. Vanier College can reduce these emissions through energy saving initiatives.
Scope 3 represents indirect emissions from the college, which are not controlled by the establishment. A wide range of GHG sources can be considered in this category, ranging from the commute of students and employees to the purchase of goods.
Roadmap to carbon neutrality
In 2023, Vanier College began a partnership with LCL Environnement to develop a roadmap towards carbon neutrality. LCL held several consultation meetings with Vanier College stakeholders, and developed a plan that includes a mix of targets related to energy efficiency, sustainable transportation, and green policies. Vanier College believes it will meet its carbon neutrality goals through the implementation of this plan, which includes switching to renewable natural gas, purchasing electric equivalents of Vanier College’s vehicle fleet, and retiring propane powered landscaping tools at the end of their utility.
Waste production and sorting
Waste is a significant contributor to scope 3 emissions, and effective waste sorting is essential to reduce these emissions.
- Recycling: Paper, plastic, glass, and metal can be recycled at the sorting stations found throughout Vanier College.
- Compost: Any food waste, soiled cardboard and paper products, compostable cafeteria packaging, or garden waste can be composted. Compost bins are found in each of Vanier College’s cafeterias, as well as in the outdoor sorting stations.
- Batteries: Battery recycling boxes are located in the second-floor hallway of the B Building, as well as in the link connecting Jake’s to the D building, and the receiving area.
It is important to consider the waste we generate before exploring waste sorting options on campus. Please try to avoid single-use plastics on campus, and consider reviewing our Green Events Guide when planning activities on campus.