Guide to Sustainability at LakeheadU

The Office of Sustainability focuses on integrating the interconnected sectors of sustainability at the University, including Academics, Operations, Engagement, and Planning & Administration. We are the central unit for sustainability at Lakehead University, and we plan and implement sustainable change through our Sustainability Plan and by coordinating the Sustainability Stewardship Council and its working groups.

We support the University in expanding its sustainability profile by implementing changes that support social, environmental, and economic justice. This includes integrating sustainability concepts and criteria into policy and planning, curriculum and research, building and operations, and extracurricular activities. 

The Office strives to collect and store a repository of sustainability initiatives, teaching, and research at the university. In doing so, it aims to act as a primary communications outlet, connecting the community to all things sustainability-related on campus. Further, the office aims to engage and encourage students, staff, and faculty in practicing sustainable behavior. 

We hold sustainability walks and “reconcili-action” walks at Lakehead’s Thunder Bay campus regularly and upon request, in addition to a number of other events throughout the year including e-waste and office supply recycling drives, clothing swaps, sustainability talks, the active commute challenge, campus beautification days, and more! Follow us on Facebook or Instagram for information on upcoming events.

Thunder Bay Campus

Orillia Campus

Department Resources

Sustainability Website: Learn about a wide variety of sustainability initiatives across the university and sustainability features on both campuses.

Sustainability Plan: The Sustainability Plan (2019-2025) guides the work of the Office of Sustainability as well as the various committees, councils, and working groups that support sustainability at Lakehead University. Learn more about our approach to sustainability and our sustainability goals!

Sustainable Building Policy: Did you know that all future renovations and buildings at Lakehead are required to be built to world-class sustainability standards? Our Sustainable Building Policy details these stringent requirements for green building.

Sustainability Webinars: Our webinars are a great way to learn about sustainability with just one click. From foraging to growing micro-greens at home, there are a variety of hands-on topics to explore!

Sustainability Stewardship Council: The Lakehead University Sustainability Stewardship Council is comprised of undergraduate and graduate students from both campuses, faculty and staff, and community members from Thunder Bay and Orillia. It is an interdisciplinary and comprehensive group that works to support sustainability through the council as a whole and its various working groups. Working groups focus on Academics, Climate Action, and Operations.

Defining Sustainability: Sustainability is a concept that differs from person to person and place to place. Explore how we define sustainability at Lakehead.

Sustainability Newsletter (2023/2024): Curious what we’ve been up to? See our 2023/2024 newsletter for more information. We look forward to another great year!

Further Information

The Office of Sustainability works with campus and community partners to advance sustainability in our academics and research, operations, leadership, and engagement. If you’d like to get involved, we invite you to join a sustainability walk or event. Everyone is welcome to join a sustainability working group (in the areas of Academics, Operations, Climate Action) and we accept nominations for the Sustainability Stewardship Council as vacancies arise. 

Contact us:
Office: CASES FB 2008
Email: lpmckell@lakeheadu.ca 
Phone: 807-343-8010 ext. 8703
Social media: @lakeheadsustainability