Metro Vancouver, B.C. - Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) has been named one of Canada's greenest employers for its "exceptional earth-friendly initiatives."
This year's list was made up of sixty companies, organizations and institutions from across the country who embody environmental leadership. Selection was based on success in reducing the organization's environmental footprint, unique environmental initiatives, employee engagement in environmental programs, and whether such programs are part of the organization's public identity.
KPU made Canada's Greenest Employers list in part for its bold commitment to ensuring all new building construction meets the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, as well as its eco-friendly mindset when it comes to commuting. The latter includes free Car2Go electric car parking, a complimentary inter-campus shuttle bus service and a university partnership with carpool.ca.
Initiatives such as "Green Wednesdays" - a partnership between the KPU School of Agriculture and the non-profit Green Ideas Network - and the numerous environmentally focused student groups active on KPU campuses were also noted by the selection committee. For several years, Green Wednesdays have brought together researchers, students, speakers and community to screen engaging and topical documentaries, and foster discussion about issues facing our ecosystems, food systems and the environment.
"Building environmental awareness improves the culture of an organization far beyond the confines of the 'green' debate," said Richard Yerema, managing editor at the Canada's Top 100 Employers project at Mediacorp Canada Inc., which organizes the competition. "Creating a culture of sustainability attracts people to the organization who are interested in new approaches to problems."
This is the second time KPU has made the green list, and marks one of many recognitions the university has received for its sustainable and environmentally mindful outlook. KPU received BC Hydro's 2012 Power Smart Excellence Award, and its Power Smart Excellence Award for leadership excellence in 2014. The KPU Surrey Arbutus building received the international Green GOOD DESIGN Award, and the Surrey campus library was honoured with the prestigious LEED Gold certification.
More details on KPU's selection are available here, and information on awarded KPU spaces, here. For Green Wednesdays, sustainable agriculture research initiatives or other earth-friendly programs, start at kpu.ca.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University has been serving the Metro Vancouver region since 1981, and has opened doors to success for more than 250,000 people. Four campuses—Richmond, Surrey, Cloverdale and Langley—offer a comprehensive range of sought-after programs, including business, liberal arts, science, design, health, trades and technology, horticulture, and academic and career advancement. Over 19,000 students annually have a choice from over 124 programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates citations and apprenticeships. Learn more at www.kpu.ca.
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