Western named Environmental Leadership finalist

By Communications Staff
January 24, 2012

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The University of Western Ontario has been named one of two finalists for the Environmental Leadership Award presented by the London Chamber of Commerce. The honour is part of the annual Business Achievement Awards, the largest business awards gala of its kind in Canada.

Western was nominated by recycling service provider BFI Canada Inc.

The submission highlights dozens of Western’s green initiatives such as its commitment to environmentally viable buildings and operations; energy reductions; transportation enhancements; and waste diversion. Western has demonstrated excellence in leadership, awareness and education for initiatives such as the creation of the President’s Advisory Committee on Environmental Sustainability (PACES), residence recycling awareness nights and the introduction of a new environment and energy manager position.

Last week, the selection committee paid a visit to the shortlisted organizations. They arrived on campus for a first-hand view of current initiatives.

Jim Galbraith of Facilities Management took the group through the recycling process featuring battery collection and e-waste; Mary Quintana Lopez of Facilities Management led a tour of lighting advancements in the University Community Centre; and Mike Gaylard of the Department of Engineering took the review panel up to the green roof of the Claudette MacKay-Lassonde Pavilion.

The chamber will announce the winner at this year’s reception on March 21.