University of Manitoba
AC-8: Campus as a Living Laboratory

Reduction of Cigarette Smoke Particulate Pollution A group of students designed a solar powered smoking shelter equipped with an electrostatic precipitator. The design included changes to the Clean Air Procedure that would require individuals to smoke only in smoking shelters while on the University property. The shelters were designed to hold up to 16 people each and filter approximately 95% of particulate matter from the cigarette smoke. Climate Action Plan Research into creating a Climate Action Plan for the University of Manitoba was conducted by a student employee of the Office of Sustainability. A critical evaluation of climate action plans and greenhouse gas emission targets of other universities was conducted. In addition, the sustainability coordinators from each institution was also contacted for suggestions and key insights into how best to go about creating a plan for the University of Manitoba. Upon completion of the research, the student recommended the University compile a comprehensive team dedicated to the creation of the plan, for goals to be set with input of the larger community, and to become members of international organizations to branch out in sharing sustainability efforts with other institutions. The Office of Sustainability will use this background information to guide the creation of a Climate Action Plan including setting emission reduction targets.

Adapting to Climate Change: Effective Building Design for Manitoba A group of students researched the best building practices for the University of Manitoba for the predicted effects of climate change in the Canadian prairies. Their design encompassed factors related to heat, wind, water and ice as climate concerns on the building design. Suggestions from their report included integrating sloped roofs, strategically placing windows, and bracing walls to make buildings more durable for a changing climate.

Aquifer Cooling System A group of students evaluated the application of geothermal cooling for a building in the University of Manitoba’s Smart Park as their graduation capstone project. The project investigated the environmental, social and economic impacts of switching from rooftop cooling units that utilize refrigerant to an open loop geothermal system. Feasibility Analysis of Geothermal Technologies at the University of Manitoba The UMEARTH student group conducted a feasibility study on the use of geothermal systems for the University of Manitoba Fort Garry campus. The report analyzed different geothermal technologies and concluded a vertical, closed loop, ground system would be the best option for the campus. The geothermal system recommended would eliminate the need for natural gas combustion, significantly reducing the University's greenhouse gas emissions. Green Office Program Evaluation Students conducted a project that evaluated the Green Office Representative (GO-Rep) program, run by the Office of Sustainability, and provided recommendations based on information gathered from the GO-Reps. GO-Reps are provided with tips, tricks and training to help make their office more sustainable and energy efficient. The students recommended that offices participating in the Green Office Program receive acknowledgement or recognition of their participation. They also suggested the program would benefit from growth if University Executives endorsed the program to encourage participation throughout the organization.

Riparian Zone Restoration The student project researched and created recommendations for the University of Manitoba restoration plans, goals and objectives for the riparian areas on campus.

Sustainable Procurement Strategies Two students developed a Green Checklist for the University to source potential vendors for equipment and other purchases. The checklist included waste reduction, recycled content and renewable resources, energy and resource efficiency, social responsibility and packaging.

Survey for Pedestrians Three students studied transportation and pedestrian movement at the University of Manitoba by going to the busiest streets for pedestrians during peak hours to ask fellow students to participate in a survey. The survey was formatted to get a better understanding of if pedestrians were walking directly from their homes to campus, or if they were also using other methods of transportation. It also looked at improvements to pedestrian paths that would make walking more comfortable. The survey results revealed lighting on pathways as a primary recommendation for improvements as well as better snow clearing in the winter. It was also recommended the University collaborate with the City of Winnipeg to improve connections from beyond the campus grounds.

Calling All Batteries!! Students evaluated the current battery recycling program on campus and made recommendations for improvement including outreach and awareness initiatives. This includes ensuring people are aware of the effects of disposing batteries in landfill waste and that there is a program available for the proper disposal of batteries on campus.

River Water Irrigation A student researched the feasibility of using water from the Red River, which runs alongside the Fort Garry campus, for purposes of irrigation. The student provided a cost break down and information on the documentation and legal barriers required to implement the project.

Maximizing Social net Benefits of Development Students highlighted Community Economic Development principles as they pertain to Fort Garry campus development that maximize social benefits. Recommendations for future planning included involving neighbouring communities in development plans, targeting purchasing that focuses on life-cycle costing, and incorporating social benefits in bidding processes and university principles and practices.

Winter Campus Students evaluated the necessity to promote active living and community involvement on the Fort Garry campus in the winter months. The recommendations included better winter infrastructure to promote spending time outdoors, such as heated sidewalks, or outdoor sporting activities in the winter months.