Overall Rating Gold - expired
Overall Score 67.05
Liaison Manon Raby
Submission Date May 26, 2017
Executive Letter Download

STARS v2.0

Concordia University
PA-2: Sustainability Planning

Status Score Responsible Party
Complete 3.50 / 4.00 Pietro Gasparrini
Director
Environmental Health and Safety
"---" indicates that no data was submitted for this field

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Does the institution have current and formal plans to advance sustainability in the following areas? Do the plans include measurable objectives?:
Current and Formal Plans (Yes or No) Measurable Objectives (Yes or No)
Curriculum Yes Yes
Research (or other scholarship) Yes No
Campus Engagement Yes No
Public Engagement Yes No
Air and Climate Yes No
Buildings Yes No
Dining Services/Food Yes Yes
Energy Yes No
Grounds Yes No
Purchasing Yes No
Transportation Yes No
Waste Yes Yes
Water Yes Yes
Diversity and Affordability Yes No
Health, Wellbeing and Work Yes No
Investment Yes No
Other Yes No

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A brief description of the plan(s) to advance sustainability in Curriculum:
See page 36 of the 2015 Concordia Campus Sustainability Assessment (CCSA): http://www.concordia.ca/campus-life/sustainability/assessment.html

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The measurable objectives, strategies and timeframes included in the Curriculum plan(s):
The University is currently working on the elaboration of a Major in Sustainability program. The goal is to have this program ready for the Academic Year 2018-19. The creation of such a program follows a multi-steps procedure from Academic Affairs that helps to track its progress.

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Accountable parties, offices or departments for the Curriculum plan(s):
Teaching, Learning & Research Sustainability Sub-Committee

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A brief description of the plan(s) to advance sustainability in Research (or other scholarship):
See page 45 of the 2015 Concordia Campus Sustainability Assessment (CCSA): http://www.concordia.ca/campus-life/sustainability/assessment.html

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The measurable objectives, strategies and timeframes included in the Research plan(s):
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Accountable parties, offices or departments for the Research plan(s):
Teaching, Learning & Research Sustainability Sub-Committee

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A brief description of the plan(s) to advance Campus Engagement around sustainability:
See page 40 of the 2015 Concordia Campus Sustainability Assessment (CCSA): http://www.concordia.ca/campus-life/sustainability/assessment.html

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The measurable objectives, strategies and timeframes included in the Campus Engagement plan:
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Accountable parties, offices or departments for the Campus Engagement plan(s):
Operational & Environmental Sustainability Sub-Committee Community Engagement Sub-Committee Teaching, Learning & Research Sustainability Sub-Committee

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A brief description of the plan(s) to advance Public Engagement around sustainability:
See page 50 of the 2015 Concordia Campus Sustainability Assessment (CCSA): http://www.concordia.ca/campus-life/sustainability/assessment.html

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The measurable objectives, strategies and timeframes included in the Public Engagement plan(s):
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Accountable parties, offices or departments for the Public Engagement plan(s):
Community Engagement Sub-Committee

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A brief description of the plan(s) to advance sustainability in Air and Climate:
See page 15 of the 2015 Concordia Campus Sustainability Assessment (CCSA): http://www.concordia.ca/campus-life/sustainability/assessment.html

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The measurable objectives, strategies and timeframes included in the Air and Climate plan(s):
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Accountable parties, offices or departments for the Air and Climate plan(s):
Operational & Environmental Sustainability Sub-Committee

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A brief description of the plan(s) to advance sustainability in Buildings:
See page 12 of the 2015 Concordia Campus Sustainability Assessment (CCSA): http://www.concordia.ca/campus-life/sustainability/assessment.html

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The measurable objectives, strategies and timeframes included in the Buildings plan(s):
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Accountable parties, offices or departments for the Buildings plan(s):
Operational & Environmental Sustainability Sub-Committee

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A brief description of the plan(s) to advance sustainability in Dining Services/Food:
See page 55 of the 2015 Concordia Campus Sustainability Assessment (CCSA): http://www.concordia.ca/campus-life/sustainability/assessment.html

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The measurable objectives, strategies and timeframes included in the Dining Services/Food plan(s):
All information is available on the university's Sustainable Eating webpage: https://www.concordia.ca/campus-life/food-services/eating-responsibly/sustainable-eating.html Local and sustainable food procurement. Concordia University has ambitious targets regarding local and sustainable sourcing: Food: 75% of local fruits and vegetables in the summer months, 50% in the fall and 25% in the winter/spring seasons (with exception to citrus) Reasonable efforts to purchase local frozen fruits and vegetables Reasonable efforts to purchase soy-based products produced or processed locally Free-run eggs only Canadian dairy products only Meat and poultry raised without cruelty Poultry: 15% raised in Quebec and 3% organic Pork: 70% grown in Quebec (with exception of processed pork products) Beef: Canadian beef only and 15% grown in Quebec Seafood: 90% certified sustainable seafood and No seafood that is on the red list of the Union for Conservation of Nature (UFCN) or any similar organization 90% of coffee and tea has to be Fairtrade certified. Generic coffee will not be accepted in non-franchise outlets Reasonable efforts to purchase organic products Local Food Days. On Local Food Days, which are organized once a month in Concordia’s dining halls, a menu developed around a theme which showcases local products. Fair Trade: August 2016 : Concordia was recognized as a Fair Trade Campus, a program of Fairtrade Canada that recognizes leadership in social sustainability. We are looking to increase the number of sustainable products from the basic requirements from Fairtrade Canada. Waste: Reuse. Cooking oil is sold or donated for biofuel use. Recycling and composting. Concordia University aims to meet an overall rate of 70% waste diversion. Composting organics from kitchens are is a large component of this diversion strategy. Bottle free campus. Bottled water is no longer sold in the vending machines and at the dining services. Water jugs are available in the dining areas and at catered events. “Lug-a-mug” program. Discount coffee prices are provided to the clients who bring their own mug. Bulk condiments. Bulk condiments are provided in the dining halls and in many cafés. Trayless dining. Our clientele do not utilize trays to transport their plates. Trayless dining reduces excess food waste, water and detergent use. Environmentally Preferable Packaging. Retail locations feature: 100% recycled content, compostable napkin and paper towel products Fully biodegradable and compostable bowls and plates, take out containers and cutlery Aramark’s proprietary Express-branded packaging for sandwiches, salads, and parfait cups are either #1 PET recyclable or compostable Catering Services will focus on using reusable platters, and 100% biodegradable plates and cutlery Non recyclables and plastic 6 are restricted. Aramark is currently collaborating with the Environmental Health & Safety department to develop educational materials for waste stations and launch promotions to encourage sustainable practices. Cleaning products: Concordia has strict guidelines and standards regarding the use of non-toxic cleaning products. EcoLogo products are prioritized. Energy Efficiency: All vending machines are certified Energy Star. Food Diversity: Concordia Food Services strives to fulfill the dietary requirements and preferences of their varied clientele. A daily selection of vegan and vegetarian options are available in dining halls and retail locations. The Green Beet which is located on the 4th floor of the Hall building exclusively features vegan and vegetarian options. To further promote the environmental benefits of eating lower on the food chain, Meatless Mondays features specialty vegan and vegetarian dishes. Best efforts are made to offer culturally diverse menus featuring traditional favorites, ethnic dishes and international flavors, including Halal and Kosher certified ingredients when possible. To meet the needs of individuals with allergies and dietary restrictions menus include no lactose, and no gluten options. Sustainable Food Coordinator: In 2014, Concordia University received funding from the J.W. McConnell Foundation’s Institutional Food Fund to create a two-year contract position called the Sustainable Food System Coordinator. This fund aims to support institutions’ efforts to improve their procurement practices and supply chain relationships in order to serve healthy, local and sustainable food in their dining halls and eateries. The Sustainable Food System Coordinator is in charge of identifying local food purchasing needs and opportunities, and developing constructive and collaborative relationships with contracted food service providers, local food suppliers and on-campus food initiatives. For more information, please contact our Sustainable Food System Coordinator, Isabelle Mailhot-Leduc, at Isabelle.m-leduc@concordia.ca.

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Accountable parties, offices or departments for the Dining Services/Food plan(s):
Operational & Environmental Sustainability Sub-Committee

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A brief description of the plan(s) to advance sustainability in Energy:
See page 15 of the 2015 Concordia Campus Sustainability Assessment (CCSA): http://www.concordia.ca/campus-life/sustainability/assessment.html

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The measurable objectives, strategies and timeframes included in the Energy plan(s):
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Accountable parties, offices or departments for the Energy plan(s):
Operational & Environmental Sustainability Sub-Committee

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A brief description of the plan(s) to advance sustainability in Grounds:
See page 20 of the 2015 Concordia Campus Sustainability Assessment (CCSA): http://www.concordia.ca/campus-life/sustainability/assessment.html

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The measurable objectives, strategies and timeframes included in the Grounds plan(s):
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Accountable parties, offices or departments for the Grounds plan(s):
Operational & Environmental Sustainability Sub-Committee

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A brief description of the plan(s) to advance sustainability in Purchasing:
See page 24 of the 2015 Concordia Campus Sustainability Assessment (CCSA): http://www.concordia.ca/campus-life/sustainability/assessment.html

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The measurable objectives, strategies and timeframes included in the Purchasing plan(s):
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Accountable parties, offices or departments for the Purchasing plan(s):
Operational & Environmental Sustainability Sub-Committee

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A brief description of the plan(s) to advance sustainability in Transportation:
See page 7 of the 2015 Concordia Campus Sustainability Assessment (CCSA): http://www.concordia.ca/campus-life/sustainability/assessment.html

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The measurable objectives, strategies and timeframes included in the Transportation plan(s):
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Accountable parties, offices or departments for the Transportation plan(s):
Operational & Environmental Sustainability Sub-Committee

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A brief description of the plan(s) to advance sustainability in Waste:
See page 27 of the 2015 Concordia Campus Sustainability Assessment (CCSA): http://www.concordia.ca/campus-life/sustainability/assessment.html

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The measurable objectives, strategies and timeframes included in the Waste plan(s):
See the university's Waste Audit webpage: https://www.concordia.ca/campus-life/sustainability/rethinkwaste/wasteaudits.html and the university's Office Waste Reduction webpage: https://www.concordia.ca/campus-life/sustainability/rethinkwaste/lowwasteoffices.html In 3 years we are aiming for 80% diversion rate which would certify us as Silver in the RecycQuebec certification program. In 10 years we are aiming to have a 90% diversion rate with a 50% overall waste reduction. This matches the objectives for the RecycQuebec Gold certification.

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Accountable parties, offices or departments for the Waste plan(s):
Operational & Environmental Sustainability Sub-Committee

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A brief description of the plan(s) to advance sustainability in Water:
See page 33 of the 2015 Concordia Campus Sustainability Assessment (CCSA): http://www.concordia.ca/campus-life/sustainability/assessment.html

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The measurable objectives, strategies and timeframes included in the Water plan(s):
See Concordia's Water Use and Reduction Program: http://www.concordia.ca/offices/facilities/water-use-reduction.html During the first months of 2013, Facilities Management has been collecting an inventory of all the plumbing fixtures in each of our buildings. This inventory will serve as a benchmark to help us measure our success as we gear up to meet a 20% target for reduction in water consumption by December 31, 2016. Meeting this goal within such a short timeframe will be no small task. In addition to banning inefficient equipment, many of our installations will need to be renovated.

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Accountable parties, offices or departments for the Water plan(s):
Operational & Environmental Sustainability Sub-Committee

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A brief description of the plan(s) to advance Diversity and Affordability:
See page 64 of the 2015 Concordia Campus Sustainability Assessment (CCSA): http://www.concordia.ca/campus-life/sustainability/assessment.html

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The measurable objectives, strategies and timeframes included in the Diversity and Affordability plan(s):
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Accountable parties, offices or departments for the Diversity and Affordability plan(s):
Operational & Environmental Sustainability Sub-Committee Community Engagement Sub-Committee Teaching, Learning & Research Sustainability Sub-Committee

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A brief description of the plan(s) to advance sustainability in Health, Wellbeing and Work:
See page 55+ of the 2015 Concordia Campus Sustainability Assessment (CCSA): http://www.concordia.ca/campus-life/sustainability/assessment.html

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The measurable objectives, strategies and timeframes included in the Health, Wellbeing and Work plan(s):
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Accountable parties, offices or departments for the Health, Wellbeing and Work plan(s):
Operational & Environmental Sustainability Sub-Committee

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A brief description of the plan(s) to advance sustainability in Investment:
See page 71 of the 2015 Concordia Campus Sustainability Assessment (CCSA): http://www.concordia.ca/campus-life/sustainability/assessment.html

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The measurable objectives, strategies and timeframes included in the Investment plan(s):
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Accountable parties, offices or departments for the Investment plan(s):
Concordia's Joint Sustainable Investment Advisory Committee (JSIAC)

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A brief description of the plan(s) to advance sustainability in other areas:
See the Coordination & Planning section (page 67+) of the 2015 Concordia Campus Sustainability Assessment (CCSA): http://www.concordia.ca/campus-life/sustainability/assessment.html

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The measurable objectives, strategies and timeframes included in the other plan(s):
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Accountable parties, offices or departments for the other plan(s):
Sustainability Steering Committee

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The institution’s definition of sustainability:
Sustainability at Concordia is a mindset and a process that leads to reducing our ecological footprint and enhancing social well-being while maintaining economic viability both on and off campus. This process of sustainability is developed through a governance system based on shared vision and responsibility that fulfills Concordia’s current needs without compromising the needs of future generations. To be sustainable in our decisions and activities is to take a long-term perspective, recognize resource capacities and balance the interconnected nature of our environment, society and economy.

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Does the institution’s strategic plan or equivalent guiding document include sustainability at a high level?:
No

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A brief description of how the institution’s strategic plan or equivalent guiding document addresses sustainability:
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The website URL where information about the institution’s sustainability planning is available:
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Data source(s) and notes about the submission:
Concordia Campus Sustainability Assessment (CCSA): The purpose of the CCSA report is to assess Concordia’s current sustainability situation and propose recommendations to further sustainability at the University. The current CCSA report is designed as a guiding and advising document for Concordia decision-makers. It will facilitate high-level discussions on the implementation of sustainability in the management and operations of the University.

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.