The University of Ottawa has long been a leader in campus sustainability. The active, ongoing engagement of our faculties and services has resulted in changes to processes, practices and structures. Collectively, we have integrated sustainability into daily life across campus, whether in curriculum and research, infrastructure maintenance, waste diversion or financial management. In 2023, the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings on Sustainability ranked the University of Ottawa 9th in Canada, 20th in North America and 72nd globally for sustainability.
While proud of the strides made, we remain keenly aware of how climate change is the single biggest threat we all face. From higher temperatures, warmer oceans and fiercer storms to food insecurity and forced displacement, we must not only prepare for the future but also adapt to our present. A recent example of our efforts was to transform roofs on campus into green roofs. This will help to remove heat from the air, reduce temperatures and slow stormwater runoff.
The following report showcases many more of the exceptional climate change adaptation efforts being made by our uOttawa community. Every endeavour to reduce our carbon footprint matters, and adapting as we move forward will limit the impact of climate change and safeguard our community.
Jacques Frémont, President and Vice-Chancellor (2016-2025)
