| Overall Rating | Gold |
|---|---|
| Overall Score | 67.27 |
| Liaison | Jesse Russell |
| Submission Date | Dec. 30, 2024 |
Canadore College
PRE-2: Points of Distinction
| Status | Score | Responsible Party |
|---|---|---|
|
N/A |
Name of the institution’s featured sustainability program, initiative, or accomplishment:
Narrative and/or website URL providing an overview of the institution’s featured program initiative, or accomplishment:
Canadore College has developed an innovative 10-year forest management plan for its 460-acre forest at the College Drive Campus, prioritizing sustainable practices, community engagement, and educational opportunities. Recognized as a national demonstration site by Colleges and Institutes Canada, the project integrates environmental stewardship with practical learning to address climate challenges.
The plan focuses on conducting a comprehensive forest inventory, measuring carbon sequestration, and maintaining the forest’s ecological health. To ensure sustainability, the college achieved dual certifications from the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI), making Canadore the first Canadian college to hold both distinctions. These certifications affirm responsible forest management practices that protect biodiversity, improve carbon storage, and support ecosystem services.
Community engagement is a cornerstone of the initiative. The project provides experiential learning opportunities for students, faculty, and community members, helping them understand the importance of sustainable forestry in combating climate change and fostering biodiversity. Educational activities include guided tours, workshops, and research collaborations, fostering a deeper connection between people and nature.
Canadore College’s commitment to environmental stewardship is further exemplified by becoming the first Ontario college to join the Campus Biodiversity Network, an international initiative founded in Montreal, Quebec. This network encourages colleges and universities to monitor and protect campus biodiversity using the iNaturalist digital data-collection tool. Its goals include building a community dedicated to wildlife and plant conservation, promoting awareness of local biodiversity, and empowering individuals to take sustainable actions while fostering well-being through nature immersion. As a proud winner of Tree Canada’s National Tree Day contest, Canadore continues to lead in sustainability, integrating these efforts into its forest management plan to contribute to international biodiversity research and create accessible biodiversity profiles for the wider community.
See the project video here
A photograph or document associated with the featured program, initiative, or accomplishment:
Name of a second featured sustainability program, initiative, or accomplishment:
Narrative and/or website URL providing an overview of the second featured program initiative, or accomplishment:
The Village at Canadore College is a groundbreaking initiative and the first facility of its kind in Canada, designed to address senior isolation while promoting intergenerational learning and community wellness. Located on the College Drive Campus, The Village is an innovative health and wellness complex that brings together students, staff, and community members to support older adults and create meaningful connections.
The Village integrates a variety of health, wellness, and social services under one roof. Through partnerships with healthcare organizations and community groups, it offers activities, workshops, and events aimed at reducing isolation among seniors and enhancing their quality of life. Programs are tailored to foster interaction between residents, students, and the broader community, creating a vibrant, inclusive environment.
Students from Canadore College’s health, wellness, and social service programs play an active role in The Village, gaining experiential learning opportunities while contributing to the care and well-being of older adults. This hands-on approach allows students to develop practical skills while fostering empathy and understanding across generations.
Key features of The Village include an interprofessional education hub, traditional healing spaces, and access to a range of therapeutic services. These elements are designed not only to meet the physical and emotional needs of seniors but also to provide opportunities for collaboration and cultural exchange.
By addressing the challenges of senior isolation and offering a model for holistic, intergenerational care, The Village sets a new standard in Canadian healthcare and education. It exemplifies Canadore College’s commitment to innovation, community engagement, and creating a positive impact on society.
More information on The Village can be found here
A photograph or document associated with the second featured program, initiative, or accomplishment:
Name of a third featured sustainability program, initiative, or accomplishment:
Narrative and/or website URL providing an overview of the third featured program initiative, or accomplishment:
Canadore College and the Canadore Students’ Council are proud signatories to the SDG Accord, a global commitment to advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through education, research, and community engagement. This shared dedication reflects our institution-wide focus on sustainability and its vital role in creating a better future for people and the planet.
Sustainability is embedded as one of Canadore College’s core operational pillars, guiding our strategic decisions and fostering initiatives that drive positive environmental, social, and economic outcomes. From reducing greenhouse gas emissions to supporting local and global sustainability projects, Canadore is committed to leading by example.
As part of this commitment, Canadore has pledged to achieve carbon neutrality by 2031, an ambitious goal that aligns with our broader efforts to combat climate change and protect natural resources. Through innovative programs, partnerships, and educational opportunities, we empower students, staff, and the community to contribute to these efforts, ensuring a collective impact.
Together, Canadore College and the Canadore Students’ Council are united in advancing the SDGs and creating meaningful, lasting change that supports a sustainable and equitable future for all.
Read news story here
A photograph or document associated with the third featured program, initiative, or accomplishment:
Notes about the information provided for this credit:
The information presented here is self-reported. While AASHE staff review portions of all STARS reports and institutions are welcome to seek additional forms of review, the data in STARS reports are not verified by AASHE. If you believe any of this information is erroneous or inconsistent with credit criteria, please review the process for inquiring about the information reported by an institution or simply email your inquiry to stars@aashe.org.