Sustainability

Grounds and waste reduction services

Services

• The Grounds and Environmental Services division is committed to supporting the objectives of the university’s Sustainability Action Plan. Through the use of sustainable practices, we’re reducing our environmental impact and helping to sustain UVic’s natural landscapes.

Who can use this service?

• Faculty
• Staff

How do I learn more about waste reduction at UVic?

• Email: wastenot@uvic.ca

Other information

Grounds and turf, horticulture and public works

UVic reuses all plant debris through an on-site campus composting operation, and salvages fallen trees for use in restoration projects. Other sustainable practices include:

• a computerized irrigation control system to decrease potable water use 
• sustainable transportation options, including electric fleet vehicles and bicycles
• bio-swales, rain gardens and green roofs to manage stormwater run-off 
• environmentally friendly fertilizer and snow and ice control products 
• native plants in new landscape installations 
• integrated pest management (IPM) approaches 

Waste reduction

The new Waste Reduction unit has standardized the management of solid waste and recycling at the university. Campus recycling and food waste services are now integrated, supported by education and outreach programs through the Office of Campus Planning and Sustainability. Other sustainable practices include:

• Campus voluntary food waste composting program 
• Waste to resource assessments
• Student move out recycling program for furniture, consumer electronics and donated clothing (drop boxes)
• Zero-waste station system for large-scale athletic events on campus
• integrated disposal system for recycling blue box materials and surplus assets such as furniture and electronics