Welcome to the 2022/23
Sustainability Report
Message from our President
At Nova Scotia Community College, sustainability is our driving force and strategic priority. We continue on our path of sustainability, seeking to create lasting positive impacts on our campus operations, our students, and the communities we serve.
This past year has brought unprecedented challenges to Nova Scotia and the urgency of this work cannot be overstated. We witnessed firsthand the devastating impacts of climate events, including Hurricane Fiona, wildfires and, most recently, catastrophic floods affecting communities across Nova Scotia.
Aligned with our commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we recognize NSCC’s position to influence key social and environmental challenges. By fostering inclusive growth, promoting equality, and supporting local communities, we strive to create a more equitable and just society.
We acknowledge that the path to sustainability is an ongoing journey. As we forge ahead, we pledge to remain steadfast in our commitment to be leaders in sustainability and embrace opportunities for further innovation and improvement.
I extend my deepest appreciation to all our employees, students, stakeholders, and communities for their dedication and support in realizing our sustainability vision. Together, we can make a difference and leave a positive legacy for generations to come.
Together, we shall leverage our collective knowledge, innovation, and passion to drive meaningful change to foster a sustainable future for all. Through united action, we shall create a more sustainable future for Nova Scotia.
Don Bureaux, NSCC President
Message from our Vice-President
I am pleased to present NSCC’s Annual Sustainability Report, which reflects our unwavering commitment to a more sustainable and resilient future. I am honoured to share the progress we have made toward climate action and our contributions to achieving the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Over the years, we have taken significant strides towards becoming an institution committed to sustainability in all aspects of our operations. Today, I am proud to say that sustainability has become ingrained in the very fabric of our college, shaping how we educate, operate, and interact with our communities.
Going forward, we have challenged ourselves by setting ambitious yet essential goals. We have set goals to achieve a STARS Platinum certification by 2026 as well as reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. Currently, plans are being developed to serve as a roadmap as we work towards these goals.
This past year, NSCC moved the dial as we advanced our commitments to sustainability. Some notable accomplishments in the 2022/23 Academic Year include the completion of our 2023 STARS submission, the installation of EV chargers at 7 campuses, the development of climate literacy micro-credentials, and the launch of multiple awareness campaigns to advance the 17 Sustainable Development Goals across the College.
The catastrophic weather events in Nova Scotia this year were not only a testament to the importance of this work but also highlighted NSCC’s critical role in community support, campus resilience and preparing our learners for a low-carbon economy.
Let us unite as a community, drawing strength from our shared vision and collective efforts to create a more sustainable future.
Anna Burke, Vice-President of College Services & Strategy