Sustainability

A global leader

Sustainability is a foundational aspect of UBC Okanagan’s campus operations. These efforts are reflected in our implementation of strategies that will reduce emissions from core operations by 2030. This work includes clean energy solutions and energy-efficient technologies, and identifying new ways to reduce emissions through our day-to-day activities, including commuting, food, waste and business air travel. Today, UBC Okanagan is working towards an accelerated short-term GHG emissions reduction target of 65% by 2030, a commitment made in our 2021 Climate Action Plan. 

From venues and accommodations built to LEED and Passive House standards, campus-wide multi-stream recycling network, reductions in single-use plastics in our accommodations and meeting venues, and food waste reduction efforts in our catering operations, UBC Okanagan’s Conferences & Accommodations team has the infrastructure and expertise to help you organize a sustainable event. 

Key highlights

  • Full recycling stations – Recycling blue, Returnable green, Compost yellow, and Waste black – are available in all resident buildings on every floor.
  • Residence Dining Facilities, like Pritchard Dining Hall, divert waste from landfills through onsite organic food waste dehydration, composting, and elimination of single-use plastics.
  • Skeena Residence houses the Sustainability Living-Learning Community. Students in this living-learning community explore the aspects of economic, environmental, and social sustainability, as well as raising awareness on local and global environmental processes levels.  
  • Solar panels on both Purcell and Nicola residences are used to preheat the on-demand domestic hot water. 

UBCO sustainability statistics

90%

Space heating and energy consumption reduced in all Residence Buildings developed since 2011 (LEED standard).

35%

Menu items in Pritchard Dining Hall feature locally sourced ingredients

100%

Chemical-free cleaning and disinfection technology implemented across our residences.

41%

Absolute campus operational GHG emissions reduced since 2013.