Universities have a significant role to play in teaching and promoting environmental sustainability. Currently, one of the most meaningful ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to save money is through lowered energy use.
Here at the University, we boast a number of outstanding initiatives that contribute to lowered energy use, but for us it is nothing new. In 1974, the University hired its first energy manager, likely the first in Canada, with the aim of lowering energy costs.
This act which took place more than three decades ago, helped lay the foundation for what has become a key value for the University — a commitment to responsible energy management. It is a value that continues today and one that can be seen throughout the campus.
If you tour the campus, you’ll see numerous examples of staff commitment to this important value. It ranges from those who work with natural light as much as possible right down to the mechanical room where the lights are always off unless someone is working in the area.
“You’ll even find trades people who source and negotiate the best prices on energy related products,” says Pierre de Gagne, assistant director of engineering and sustainable development. “They really treat the University’s money as their own. It’s a way of demonstrating goodwill and pride towards this central value.”
During the past 15 years, the University of Ottawa’s population has increased by 55 per cent. During this same period, energy consumption has only increased by 13 per cent and our direct emissions remain unchanged. Our energy utility bills add up to $331 per student per year; less than half of the cost when compared with most other Canadian universities.
Reduced energy consumption clearly helps the environment but it also translates into a real financial advantage. Our current energy savings equate to a savings of more than $12 million per year. With this money, the University can go out and hire better professors in greater numbers which means an improved university experience for students.
As we look towards the future, the University is continually working to develop better and more innovative solutions to minimize our impact. Visit the sustainable development site to find out how you too can get involved.
