Sustainability at SAIT

Sustainability

Sustainability is the desired state of preserving ecological balance, supporting ongoing economic production, and maintaining social equity to ensure a healthy environment, stable economy, and thriving communities for today and future generations.

Sustainable development

Sustainable development is a more dynamic concept that describes achieving sustainability. It involves pursuing growth and progress through strategies and practices that balance economic, environmental, and social goals.

Environmental, social and governance reporting

Environmental, social and governance (ESG) refers to a collection of corporate performance evaluation criteria that assess the robustness of an organization's governance mechanisms and ability to effectively manage its environmental and social impacts.

Continuous improvement

A continuous improvement approach prioritizes engagement with our partners and stakeholders and keeps us mindful of embracing long-term perspectives. It includes regular reflection, goal setting and adaptation based on changing societal shifts and emerging challenges.

Stewardship

Stewardship revolves around responsible management of resources, including greenhouse gas emissions. SAIT’s main campus is situated on 96 acres of land. By investing in sustainable practices, we can contribute to a healthy planet and set an example for students and our community.

Reciprocity

By incorporating the Indigenous value of reciprocity, we emphasize mutual exchange and understanding of diverse perspectives. The experiences, relationships, and recognitions we foster encourage psychological safety, equalizing opportunities, and learning from the talents and knowledge of others.

Partnership

A good partnership creates a platform for shared objectives and brings together diverse resources to leverage each other’s strengths, achieve greater long-term sustainability and increase value for all.

Aspiration

Through setting ambitious goals, envisioning positive change and committing to excellence in sustainability practices, we inspire leaders, faculty, staff, and students to lead by example.

Global perspective

Recognize the global implications of local actions, incorporate diverse cultural perspectives, and respect into sustainability efforts.

Education and awareness

Promote sustainability literacy and awareness that fosters a growth mindset.

Sustainability pillars

Ensure our work aligns with and advances the three pillars of sustainability: environmental stewardship, social responsibility and economic viability.

Innovation and leadership

Apply systematic sustainability solutions to institutional policies and initiatives to drive progress.

Transparency and continuous improvement

Commit to continuous improvement and accountability through regular and public performance assessments. Continuously refine strategies in response to new challenges and opportunities.

SAIT’s Sustainable Development Advisory Council (SDAC) is responsible for building a forum of voices for SAIT students, faculty, and staff on behalf of SAIT's sustainability initiatives and programs.

The purpose of the SDAC is to recommend, support and advocate for institutional sustainability development goals. Goals are tailored to enhance sustainability within academics, student engagement and campus operations.

• Jaclyn Damboise, People and Culture
• Conlan Donahue, People and Culture
• Lisa Miller, Facilities Management Operations
• Hanako Niska, Facilities Management Operations
• Jennifer Brown, School of Health and Public Safety
• Bo Hill, Facilities Management Operations
• Jennifer Russell, Indigenous Engagement
• Stephen Barber, Health Safety and Environment
• Gursher Pannu, School of Business
• Brad Rosenberger, Hospitality and Tourism Operations
• Jessica Chou, Commercial Services
• Holly Parks, Commercial Services;
• Amy Dowd, Communications
• Kiera Savoie, SAITSA
• Greg Stein, Youth Initiatives
• Pablo Pina, MacPhail School of Energy
• Alyssa Athanasopoulos, Alumni & Development
• Colin Pattison, MacPhail School of Energy
• Alexandra Kodyra, Green Building TAC (Technology Access Centre)
• Justin Pockar, Green Building TAC (Technology Access Centre)
• Dan Weinert, School of Construction
• Melanie Ross, Green Building TAC (Technology Access Centre)
• Sonja Pernia, Academic Services