On Saturday, March 23, George Brown College will join individuals and organizations worldwide in switching off the lights at 8:30 p.m. for Earth Hour. All non-essential lighting will be turned off at our three campuses.
It's a collective action we've been participating in since 2008 to acknowledge the impacts of climate change and nature loss and demonstrate our commitment to building a more sustainable world.
"I encourage you to join us in not only observing Earth Hour, but in continuing to support our vital work to protect and preserve our planet," said George Brown College President Dr. Gervan Fearon.
GBC continues to take climate action
Sustainability is among GBC's strategic priorities. Our efforts are visible on campus and in the greater community.
Highlights of these actions include the following:
We're working with business, community and government partners to solve climate change problems. BSI recently launched the FOR TOMORROW circular clothing brand.
Thanks to the efforts of employees and students in the Honours Bachelor of Food Studies program, the Chef School is the first chef school in Canada to receive the Gold Organic Campus certification.
Our net-zero carbon emissions building is set to open in 2025. The project sets exciting new standards for mass-timber construction.
We recently launched the Friendlier reusable container program at Waterfront Campus. We hope to expand to the Centre for Hospitality & Culinary Arts (CHCA) soon.
How can I contribute to sustainability efforts?
The consequences and challenges of climate change are huge and figuring out how to make an impact can be overwhelming. As part of the GBC community, you can improve sustainability on campus and beyond in many ways.
For students
Explore sustainability in your program
GBC strives to include sustainability in program curriculums, and students can take it further. Seek out assignments, projects or experiential learning opportunities that directly involve sustainability.
Get involved in applied research
The Office of Research and Innovation works with clients, from large companies to local startups, to bring new products and services to life. Many research partnerships have a sustainability focus.
Join the Sustainability Squad
If you are passionate about sustainability, consider joining George Brown's Sustainability Squad, where you can participate in student-led initiatives contributing to environmental conservation efforts.
Become a WWF Living Planet Leader
Students can earn Living Planet Leader certification by applying sustainability practices in to their lives and in academics, demonstrating leadership, and becoming volunteers in the community.
For the entire GBC community
Take in new perspectives
Check out the Courage My Friends podcast, produced by the Tommy Douglas Institute at George Brown College. This show explores various climate-related topics and features guests who are leaders in their fields.
Build sustainability into your daily routine
Small, simple actions can make a difference, such as carrying reusable food and drink containers and bags, considering your purchases and how they're packaged, and choosing climate-friendly transportation options.
- Cycling: Plan a route using the City of Toronto's Cycling Network Map and then find a place to lock up with GBC's bike parking maps.
- Ditch bottled water: Bring your reusable water container to campus. Find out where to fill it up.
- Keep your paper use in check: Check out eight tips to reduce ysage.
- Are you planning a meeting? Make it green: Review GBC's Green Meeting Guide.
Find more acts of green on the Sustainability website.
