Overview
The Sustainable Change Offices Program is geared to equip staff, faculty and librarian offices on campus with a guide to creating, and maintaining a sustainable office space.
Getting Started
The Office certification form is divided into seven sections. It is advised to review each section below and gain a high-level overview of the questions asked prior to completing the Sustainable Change form.
- Devices are set at low power mode
- Mac Low Power Mode:
Windows Low Power Mode
- Mac Low Power Mode:
- Computers, multi-outlet strips and electronics are shut off and/or unplugged at the end of the day
- Station and overhead lights are turned off in rooms not in use/at the end of the day
- Natural lighting is used instead of artificial lighting
- Energy-saving procedures for long weekends and holidays are in place
Section Overview
- Digital documentation is prioritized over physical copies
- Communal printers are prioritized over desktop printers
- Printers are set to black and white, with banner pages disabled
- Note taking is conducted on scrap paper
- E-waste and printer cartridges are collected for proper disposal
- Waste reduction and recycling communications are distributed throughout the office
Section Overview
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Virtual meetings are prioritized over in-person meetings when possible
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Digital communication is prioritized over physical copies
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Rooms with natural lighting are used more frequently
Section Overview
Office dishwasher is run on a full load
Small appliances are unplugged at the end of the day
Local or Fair Trade food items are prioritized for events
Purchasing food and other items in bulk to reduce unnecessary packaging
Waste-free lunches are prioritized
Reusable dinnerware and cutlery are available for office use
Fridge and freezer clean ups are conducted regularly
Sustainable catering option
Section Overview
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Baseline assessment completed showing how team members commute to work
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Public transportation and carpooling is prioritized for off-campus events
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Communication on UTM’s sustainable transportation options are distributed within the office
- FSC certified paper, other post-consumer recycled paper products, and products with environmentally-friendly packaging are prioritized
- Plant-based ink/Sustainable ink is prioritized over conventional printer ink
- Purchasing from Canadian, local, and/or socially responsible companies is prioritized
- When purchasing giveaways, swag items and team branding items, prioritize sustainable materials and responsible sourcing
- Prohibit the purchase of single use plastic water bottles
Section Overview
Team members have read and are familiar with both the UTM Sustainability Strategic Plan and Climate Positive Plan
Team has discussed how to participate in supporting both Plans
Team hosts and/or participates in sustainability-related activities
Congratulations to our 2022-23 Sustainable Change Office participants!
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Hospitality & Ancillary Services
- Information & Instructional Technology Services (I&ITS)
- Office of the Vice President & Principal (OVPP)
- Facilities Management and Planning (FMP)
- Office of the Vice-Principal, Academic and Dean (OVPA&D)
- Institute for Management and Innovation (IMI)
- Office of the Vice-Principal, Research (OVPR)
- Office of the Registrar
