Students Driving Campus Sustainability Projects

Student-led initiatives turning ideas into real environmental impact at Laurier.

Sustainability on campus is more than a trend. Students at Laurier are turning ideas into action, leading initiatives that reduce waste, conserve resources, and foster equity. These projects give participants hands-on experience while building leadership, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

Some current projects show the range of possibilities:

• Blue Cycle: Improves water management on campus through rain barrels, audits of water refill stations, and exploring greywater system enhancements.

• Science Teaching Labs Plastics Recycling Initiative: Diverts thousands of single-use plastics from labs, including gloves and other disposable materials.

• Verdanza Tech: Uses AI to reduce household food waste and raise awareness about sustainable habits.

• Toiletries as Necessities: Provides hygiene items to students in need, supporting equity and mental well-being.

• Summit for Creative Community Solutions: Brings together students, staff, and community members for panels, performances, and discussions on sustainability, resilience, and reconciliation.

These projects show that sustainability can be integrated into everyday campus life through practical initiatives, technology, and community-focused solutions.

Leadership in Action:

SIB president Maia Flinton, a past Sustainable Hawk Fund recipient for Thrifted Threads, turned her project of curating thrifted clothing and promoting rewearing into a campus initiative that reduces textile waste and encourages sustainable fashion. Her work shows how a single creative idea can grow into lasting impact and motivates other students to launch their own sustainability initiatives.

How Students Can Get Involved:

• Join student clubs: Participate in workshops, events, and sustainability-focused competitions.

• Launch your own projects: Small ideas can become meaningful initiatives on campus.

• Collaborate with peers: Working with others expands reach and strengthens outcomes.

Participating in student-led sustainability projects also develops skills that employers highly value. Students gain experience in problem-solving, project management, and practical sustainability. These skills translate directly into business and professional opportunities.

This November, take inspiration from the projects happening around campus and student leaders like Maia Flinton. Your ideas, no matter how small, can make a real difference and help create a more sustainable and engaged campus community. Students interested in pitching their own sustainability ideas can also look forward to the upcoming Greenovation Challenge, where teams showcase innovative solutions and compete for the opportunity to bring their projects to life. The challenge takes place on Saturday, November 15th, from 10 AM to 4 PM. You can apply here!