VCC's top 5 sustainability initiatives
This Earth Day, we acknowledge and embrace climate action as more than a goal—it’s a core strategic priority embedded across programs, services, and operations. ²ÝÁñ¶ÌÊÓƵis committed to building a more sustainable future for students, faculty, employees, and the communities we serve every day.
Ready to make an impact? Here is a round up of sustainability activities and initiatives around campus you can participate in.
Bee Fest: meet VCC’s pollinators
²ÝÁñ¶ÌÊÓƵhas hosted Mason bees since 2020 and this year, we are excited to invite you to Bee Fest, a celebration of hands-on learning about pollinators. Activities include planting wildflowers, tasting honey, learning about Mason bees, seeing cocoons in nesting houses, winning prizes, and making beeswax candles.
When: Thursday, April 24 | 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM
Where: Courtyard beside the ping pong tables at Broadway campus
Zero waste eco heroes: office and school supplies recycling
Launched in September 2024, this pilot program places recycling bins in both campus bookstores and libraries for items like pens, paperclips, and staplers. Led by student Marcus Ng and faculty member Emily Simpson, this initiative encourages waste reduction and student-led sustainability.
Greener minds: sustainability books and campus hubs
VCC's Library features a curated sustainability book collection and dedicated spaces for environmental learning. The sustainability tent at the Broadway Library and the study room at the Downtown campus help students explore climate change topics. Many books are aligned with the .
Eight million dollars in energy savings
Since 2007, ²ÝÁñ¶ÌÊÓƵhas saved over eight million dollars in energy costs and reduced energy use by 47 per cent. These savings come from upgrades such as heat pump replacements, LED lighting, water-saving flush valves, and digital control systems. These improvements support both cost savings and long-term sustainability.
Carbon leadership that exceeds provincial targets
²ÝÁñ¶ÌÊÓƵhas reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 61 percent compared to 2007 levels. This achievement means we have already surpassed British Columbia’s 2040 emissions reduction target. Our continued focus on decarbonization studies, climate risk planning, and sustainable purchasing shows our strong commitment to climate action.
VCC's Strategic Innovation Plan includes designing spaces and infrastructures optimized for all learner and employee success and well-being. Learn how ²ÝÁñ¶ÌÊÓƵis making a difference for our students and communities.