Environmental Policy Statement

Mount Saint Vincent University (the Mount) takes great pride in the natural beauty of its campus. The woodlands surrounding the campus have been a place of reflection and inspiration, and offer insight into the complexity and balance of nature. The Mount’s unique ecosystem provides refuge for a variety of diverse plants and wildlife, ranging from the Dawn Redwood (l. Metasequoia) located in our arboretum, to the white-tailed deer that roam our grounds.

For those interested in nature, conservation and environmental study, the Mount offers a canvas of natural classrooms in which students and the extended community can learn and explore environmental principles and processes of concern.

The Mount strives to be a leader in integrating social concerns in its operations and curriculum. The following guidelines intend to further the sound ecological management of the Mount’s ongoing operations.

Purpose

This policy will play an integral role as the Mount continues to develop an environmentally sustainable and economically viable campus that reflects the University’s core values of engagement and accountability. This statement represents a commitment by the Mount to meet the needs of students, faculty and staff while preserving the environment for future generations. The Mount is committed to preparing its students to become engaged environmental citizens on campus, in their own communities and throughout their lives. The University will educate the community about best practices to continuously improve the environmental footprint of the campus and its operations.

SCOPE

This policy applies to all members of the Mount Saint Vincent University community, including students, faculty, staff and visitors.

Guidelines

  • The University will consider the environmental impact of its development, communications, procurement, curriculum, research and campus activities.
  • The University will encourage the conservation of native ecosystems on campus, where possible, and will use these natural classrooms to teach stewardship and environmental responsibility.
  • The University will strive to practice ecological responsibility focused on the preservation of its natural woodlands and gardens.
  • The University will broaden its commitment to environmental education by introducing, where practical, relevant environmental content to curriculum material.
  • The University will seek to minimize its impact on landfills through the promotion of best practices to reduce, reuse and recycle.
  • The University will strive to minimize damage to non-target biological organisms through the elimination of pesticides in lawn and garden applications, with limited exception.
  • The University will promote the use of environmentally conscious transportation to all members of the Mount community, including public transit and car-pooling.
  • The University will partner with other educational institutions and government agencies to improve best practices in its operations.
  • The University will provide waste diversion and recycling stations and item-specific collection options in high-traffic areas across campus.
  • The University will purchase ENERGY STAR rated appliances and computers, paper products from responsible foresters (SFI), and general purpose cleaning products certified as Ecologo.
  • The University will maintain a user-friendly sustainability website with tips, links and suggestions for meeting policy guidelines.