The Desautels Faculty of Management is the first McGill faculty to achieve Silver status across its internal units in the Sustainable Workplace Certification program.
The program, led by McGill’s Office of Sustainability, encourages participating faculties and departments to implement eco-friendly practices, reduce environmental impact, and cultivate a culture of sustainability. Surpassing the 75-per cent participation threshold, McGill Desautels reached Silver certification in February, a significant accomplishment for both the Faculty and the University.
Wesley McCoy, Sustainability and Events Supervisor, and a driving force behind the Faculty’s sustainability initiatives, highlighted the collective dedication and enthusiasm of his fellow McGill Desautels community members. “This goes beyond meeting minimum requirements,” he said. “It’s about pushing boundaries and setting new standards for sustainable practices.”
Ongoing journey
The journey to Silver has been marked by proactive and innovative approach to sustainability, including initiatives such as waste reduction, energy efficiency, and the promotion of a culture of environmental awareness.
But the pursuit doesn’t end at Silver – it’s an ongoing journey. In fact, the ambitious Faculty-wide challenge of achieving Gold-level Sustainable Workplace Certification began in 2022, when McCoy led the Desautels Master’s Program Office to Gold certification as a Sustainable Workplace Ambassador. Following this success, Dean Yolande E. Chan challenged McCoy to expand certification across the entire Faculty.
McGill’s Executive Director of Sustainability, Francois Miller, emphasized the importance of collective effort in creating a sustainable McGill. “McGill Desautels’ accomplishment of a faculty-wide Silver status in the Workplace Certification program is a clear testament to their commitment to environmental stewardship,” said Miller. “Through proactive initiatives and defined targets, the Faculty is making an impact that extends beyond the University’s walls.”
McGill Desautels’ commitment to sustainability aligns with its overarching ethos – helping shape responsible leaders of tomorrow who prioritize sustainability in their professional careers, fostering a world full of opportunities and a dedication to positive impact.
Working together toward a sustainable future
In finding innovative ways to advance this commitment, McCoy shared the Faculty’s latest endeavour. “In January, compost stations were introduced on every floor of the Armstrong building to target diverting 70 per cent of waste from landfill bags to the composting stream,” he said. “It’s a significant step towards embedding sustainability as a way of life within our Faculty.”
The Faculty’s achievement of Silver status not only marks an important moment for McGill, it reinforces the idea that a sustainable future is achievable through collective effort, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to positive change.
The Sustainable Workplace Certification program proposes environmentally, economically, and socially responsible actions to inspire sustainable changes at work and at home. Learn more on the Office of Sustainability’s website.