Loyola integrated solar installation wins Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in Engineering

Loyola Residence tower

Saint Mary’s University’s solar installation on the Loyola Residence tower has won this year’s Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in Engineering. It is a fitting tribute to SMU and Dillon Consulting, who, with this project, transformed this 22-storey student residence into the tallest integrated solar exterior in North America.

“This project demonstrates the tangible contribution of Canadian engineers towards solving the global challenge of climate change,” says Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray, Saint Mary’s University President and Vice-Chancellor. “When the opportunity came along, the team at SMU and Dillon Consulting did not hesitate to try something new, something truly innovative. We sincerely hope this is just the first of many similar integrated photovoltaic installations.” 

The project, which began in 2023 and was completed in 2024, involved replacing the worn south-facing exterior wall with new building-integrated photovoltaic cells (BIPVs). Instead of attaching solar panels, the building surface itself generates electricity when in direct contact with sunlight. The project was carried out by DSRA Architects, Dillon Consulting, BMR Structural Engineering, EllisDon, Grey Cardinal Management Inc., Able Electric and Markland. 

“Through the seamless combination of photovoltaic cladding, we redefine not just the skyline in Halifax but also the standards of professional engineering,” said Benjamin Doucet, P.Eng., Project Manager, Dillon Consulting Limited. “This project not only uplifts the image of our profession but firmly establishes Nova Scotia as a leader in adopting out-of-the-box engineering solutions. It encapsulates our commitment to excellence, economic sustainability and the bright future of green technology. Together, we're not just building structures; we're engineering a brighter, sustainable future.” 

The $6-million retrofit project will provide approximately 100,000 kWh of clean energy to the campus annually, including 50 percent of the energy required by the Loyola building, lowering its carbon footprint.

Senior Director of Facilities Management Dennis Gillis said, “We are grateful for the opportunity to make an impact on the environment, to push the envelope and to show people that it is ok to do things a little differently—we must do things differently when it comes to the environment. We are hoping the recognition from this award will further encourage others to take similar steps to help in the area of climate change.” 

A ceremony will be held at the Government House in May 2024. The Honourable Arthur K. LeBlanc, ONS, KC, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia, will present the award to representatives of Saint Mary’s University and Dillon Consulting Ltd.

BComm student with focus on sustainability wins prestigious Frank H. Sobey Award

Madeline (Maddie) Bristol

Sobey School of Business student Madeline (Maddie) Bristol has been named one of only eight undergraduate students from across Atlantic Canada to win this year's  Frank H. Sobey Award for Excellence in Business Studies.  

Maddie is in her final year of studying for a Bachelor of Commerce at the Sobey School of Business at Saint Mary's. In addition to her studies, Maddie actively seeks opportunities to gain practical, real-world experience. 

Maddie served two consecutive year-long terms as president of Enactus Saint Mary's. During her presidency, she managed projects aimed at reducing food waste at the farm level, eliminating food insecurity, teaching at-risk youth financial literacy, and clearing oceans of plastic waste. Under her leadership, the team was named national champions in both the Scotiabank Climate Action Challenge and the TD Entrepreneurship Challenge. 

Plastarch Packaging team at the 2023 Innovation Cup

As her passion for entrepreneurship and sustainability grew, Maddie launched Plastarch Packaging. The business provides a bioplastic solution to single-use cutlery and packaging for environmentally conscious business owners without compromising durability and affordability. Plastarch Packaging was the recipient of a $10,000 award at December’s Innovation Cup, hosted by the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre.

Maddie's commitment to entrepreneurship and sustainability, as demonstrated through her leadership of Enactus Saint Mary's and the founding of Plastarch Packaging, played a significant role in her selection for the Frank H. Sobey Award for Excellence in Business Studies. Her innovative approach to addressing environmental challenges and her dedication to making a positive impact on the community exemplify the qualities that the award aims to recognize and celebrate. 

“I extend my warmest congratulations to Maddie Bristol,” says Mark Raymond, Interim Dean, Sobey School of Business. “Maddie embodies the SMU experience. Our students develop an entrepreneurial mindset and are equipped with the knowledge, insights, real work experiences and network to lead and make a positive impact on business and on the community.” 

About the Frank H. Sobey Award for Excellence in Business Studies

All full-time business students attending Atlantic Canadian universities are eligible for consideration for the award. Deans at each university nominate candidates who have demonstrated a high level of entrepreneurship, a commitment to supporting the communities in which they live and work and relevant employment experience. Each award winner receives $45,000 in recognition of their achievements and gains access to mentorship support from members of the business community across the Atlantic region.  

TransCoastal Adaptations helping coastal communities become resilient to climate change

Environment and Climate Change Minister Timothy Halman (second from right) with recipients of the Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund. Kelly Umlah (center) represents the TransCoastal Adaptations Green Shores for Homes project.

Kelly Umlah BES’17, TransCoastal’s Education and Outreach Coordinator

Environment and Climate Change Minister Timothy Halman

Minister Halman speaks with representatives of the community-led projects which received funding from the Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund

Signage at Mahone Bay Beach

TransCoastal Adaptations is building on the success of a program that helps homeowners in coastal communities protect and revitalize their shorelines, thanks to an injection of funding from the provincial government.

More than $2.45 million from the Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund will support seven community-led projects that are helping Nova Scotians prepare for and respond to climate change impacts. One of those projects is the Green Shores for Homes program with TransCoastal Adaptations: Centre for Nature-Based Solutions at Saint Mary’s University.

Environment and Climate Change Minister Timothy Halman announced the funding at an event in Mahone Bay on November 23.

“This summer was a heartbreaking reminder of the destruction and loss that climate change is causing,” said Minister Halman. “It was also a reminder that all Nova Scotians must work together to protect each other, our homes, communities and natural areas from climate change. These projects–many of which involve best practices in using nature-based solutions–show exactly the kind of community-led, all-hands-on-deck action that is needed to make our communities and ecosystems more resilient to climate change and to protect all that we hold dear.”

With $238,098 from the fund, TransCoastal Adaptations (TCA) will be able to expand its Green Shores for Homes program, bringing it to coastal communities such as the municipalities of West Hants, Barrington and Pictou County. The new funds will also allow TransCoastal to provide free shoreline assessments for waterfront homeowners in those areas.

“We are thrilled to help increase our local communities’ coastal resilience through the Green Shores for Homes program thanks to this funding, which will ensure that Green Shores helps more vulnerable communities and trains homeowners with nature-based strategies to protect their shorelines in the face of climate change and sea level rise,” says Kelly Umlah BES’17, TransCoastal’s Education and Outreach Coordinator.

Umlah spoke at the funding announcement, thanking the provincial government and Federation of Nova Scotia Municipalities for supporting the project, “Building Community Coastal Resilience in Nova Scotia with Green Shores for Homes”.

British Columbia/Nova Scotia partnership

The Green Shores for Homes program originated with the Stewardship Centre for British Columbia, which partnered with TransCoastal Adaptations to broaden the program’s reach to the Maritime provinces.

Through the training, coastal property owners learn to use nature-based solutions to address issues such as shoreline erosion, sea level rise and climate change adaptation. With programs also created for local governments and commercial developers, the Green Shores initiatives promote sustainable maintenance, restoration and stewardship of healthy, resilient shorelines.

On December 7, all are welcome to learn more in a Green Shores webinar, “Practical strategies and lessons learned from nature-based project implementation in the Maritimes and British Columbia,” co-presented by TransCoastal and the Stewardship Centre for B.C.

Since the expansion of the Green Shores program to the Maritimes, TCA has trained over 150 municipal staff, contractors and members of the public in Green Shores Level 1, with many continuing their training with Level 2. Working with partners in government and NGOs, TCA has provided technical expertise on a few living shoreline projects that will soon be certified Green Shores for Shoreline Development sites. The new funding will allow more time for outreach to homeowners for smaller-scale projects on private properties in need of shoreline protection and habitat, Umlah said.

Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund

The provincial government created the Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund to support community-led action and leadership, as part of the Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act. Launched in November 2022, the fund helps municipalities, non-profit/community groups, post-secondary schools and Mi’kmaw communities respond to and prepare for climate change impacts, and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 

The projects announced last week were funded through the first round of the program; the call for projects for the second round closed on November 14. Funding was also announced last week for the Bluenose Coastal Action Foundation in Mahone Bay, Friends of the DesBrisay Museum in Bridgewater, Bonny Lea Farm in Chester, Waterfront Baddeck, Kingsburg Coastal Conservancy Association, and the Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq Aquatic Resources and Fisheries Management.

“Communities across the province continue to experience the effects of climate change, such as extreme weather events,” Juanita Spencer, CEO of the Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities said at the announcement. “These projects will build resilience in communities and natural habitats, make community infrastructure energy efficient, give us carbon storage research and demonstrate the power and effectiveness of locally-led action on tackling climate change. We are pleased to support these homegrown solutions which will play a role in shaping a more sustainable future for all.”

Read more

• Learn more about Green Shores for Homes in the Maritimes.

• Register for the Green Shores webinar. (December 7, 1-2 p.m.)

• Read the provincial funding announcement from November 23, 2023.

Student researcher has found 100—and counting—invasive crayfish in Three Mile Lake

Invasive species has potential to move well beyond one Halifax-area lake

Dr. Linda Campbell, graduate student researcher Madison Bond, and DFO Officer Sarah Kingsbury MSc’20 show evidence of crayfish at Three Mile Lake

As a master’s student at Saint Mary’s University, Madison Bond has a unique and exciting opportunity to conduct research that could play a pivotal role in the protection of Nova Scotia’s ecosystem.

For her thesis project, she has been studying the presence of Red Swamp Crayfish, an invasive species found in Three Mile Lake, in Waverley, N.S. This species has the potential to wreak havoc on this lake—with the potential to create damage on a much larger scale.

Red Swamp Crayfish, which look like tiny lobsters, are native to the southern United States. It’s not known yet how they arrived in the Maritimes, but Madison, along with supervising professor Dr. Linda Campbell and partners at the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), have been investigating the impact that they have already had on the lake.

Madison Bond speaks with media about her research

Under a student contract with DFO, Madison caught the first live crayfish at the lake in 2022; approximately 100 have now been captured in traps. Her research work this academic year and next summer is to collect more crayfish and study how their lifecycle and habits differ compared to the crayfish living in their native habitats.

Because Nova Scotia temperatures are colder than their native freshwater habitats, crayfish may burrow deeper into shorelines. The temperature could also affect the number of offspring and the length of their lifecycle. Using frozen crayfish in the lab, Madison will also determine what they eat—leading to more answers about their impact on the local ecosystem.

As an invasive species in a lake, crayfish cause a variety of issues. Crayfish are known for burrowing into the shoreline, which can cause significant damage by changing the shoreline which leads to erosion. Along with the loss of habitat for native species, the aggressive crayfish also compete for food, space and calcium in the water.

Crayfish go through a wandering phase in their lifecycle, which means that they can travel significant distances on land, and potentially move to new bodies of water. The Shubenacadie Canal is within walking distance for a crayfish, meaning this invasive species problem has the potential to become exponentially larger. “Shubie” Canal is a 114-kilometre waterway that stretches from the Halifax Harbour to the Bay of Fundy, and is a well-used and loved recreation destination in Nova Scotia.

Crayfish aren’t the first invasive species in Nova Scotia. Dr. Linda Campbell’s Dynamic Environment and Ecosystem Health Research (DEEHR) lab at Saint Mary’s has also investigated the impact of two other invasive species, Chinese mystery snails and chain pickerel.

To protect the province’s native species, habitats and waterways, never introduce a plant, pet or other animal into the wild.

If you find a crayfish, please put it in a bag and note details such as location coordinates, time and date, and contact Madison Bond and the team at Saint Mary’s who will collect it from you. Please do not disturb the traps.

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Public Lecture

Dr. Linda Campbell will present a lecture titled “Overlooked no more: non-indigenous, invasive species in Nova Scotia lakes & rivers”

The unanticipated and unplanned appearance of non-indigenous species in freshwater ecosystems is a global issue. In regions lacking biosurveillance and awareness programs, the potential for unwanted species to establish in lakes is very high. Dr. Linda Campbell will present case studies for both fish and invertebrates in Nova Scotia, highlight progress made over the past decade, and discuss ongoing needs in order to limit the impact of unwanted species on Nova Scotia’s freshwater ecosystems.

Date: Monday, December 4, 2023
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Location: In person at Saint Mary’s University – Atrium 101 or via Zoom
Details: https://nsis1862.ca/public-lectures/

Women in Business event highlights networking and sustainability

Chantal Brine BA’09 discusses the importance of forming meaningful connections through strategic networking techniques and how it can empower your future.

Co-Chairs of the Women in Business Committee and hosts of the “Sobey School of Business - Elevating Women in Business: Blazing Trails”, Manar Salem and Meredith Drost, welcoming our panelists and speakers.

(Left to Right) Moderator AVP, Diversity Excellence, Rohini Bannerjee and panelists Marley MacDonald MA’14, Rebecca de Condé BComm’15, Sara Shabnam BComm’15, and Dr. Denise Daley discussing their personal experiences with environmental sustainability and its positive impact.

Committee and Volunteers: (Left to Right) Luke McOnie, Tiffany Delaney, Rhonda Harrington, Mohosina Afrin Chowdhury, Nimrah Mujeeb, Manar Salem, Meredith Drost, Hallie Wedge, Stephanie Letemplier, Shrilakshmi Subramanian, Tabassum Fatima, Areej Zara.

Dr. Mark Raymond, Interim Dean of the Sobey School of Business opening remarks for the Elevating Women in Business: Blazing Trails event. 

Attendees practicing the networking skills that keynote Chantal Brine BA’09 presented on.

Dr Robert Summerby-Murray President at Saint Mary’s delivering the closing remarks.

On October 17, the Sobey School of Business celebrated women in business, with the Elevating Women in Business: Blazing Trails event. Now in its 5th year, the annual event shines a light on women business leaders and this year, brought a special focus on how to create a more sustainable world.

Keynote speaker Chantal Brine BA’09, who is the CEO and Founder of EnPoint, spoke to a crowd of more than 80 attendees about the importance of mentorship and strategic networking techniques. Another highlight was a panel discussion with Dr. Denise Daley, Executive Director of the Parker Street Food and Furniture Bank; Sara Shabnam BComm’15, Founder & CEO of Better Day Vintage; Rebecca de Condé BComm’15, Owner of Effex Curated Vintage; and Marley MacDonald MA’14, Director of Responsibility and Sustainability at the NSLC, who came together to discuss sustainability among their respective professions.

During this event, Dr. Rohini Bannerjee, AVP Diversity Excellence, moderated the discussion which explored how these accomplished professionals seamlessly integrated sustainability into their careers and discovered the art of building meaningful connections through networking.

This thought-provoking and inspirational gathering not only fostered a sense of unity within the Saint Mary’s community but also set a precedent, illuminating the path toward a brighter and more sustainable future.

Documentary by Dr. Kate Ervine reveals the unseen ways we contribute to greenhouse gas emissions

Dr. Kate Ervine, The Carbon Cage

When you think of your carbon footprint, you may think of your daily commute or home energy consumption. One Saint Mary’s professor is shedding light on the other unseen ways we contribute to greenhouse gas emissions every day.

Kate Ervine is an associate professor of Global Development Studies. Last November, her short documentary, “The Carbon Cage,” was published by Scientific American. 

“Perhaps we can start reimagining a world where we reprioritize things that contribute to people’s well-being” - Dr. Kate Ervine

Ervine co-created the documentary with journalist and documentary filmmaker Duy Linh Tu through a grant from the Global Reporting Centre. It highlights how wealthy countries like the United States and Canada have become trapped in a cycle of fossil fuel reliance, and how attempts to combat climate change sometimes don’t address the root of the problem.

“I set out to explore the global political economy of climate change and the centrality of carbon to our economies, our society and our lives, and why that makes climate change hard to address,” says Ervine. 

“It's not that we're not doing some effective things, but there’s a lot of delay and distraction.”

Ervine traces the roots of contemporary climate change to the rise of our current economic system during the Industrial Revolution. Since then, demands for unchecked growth in production, consumption and energy use have contributed to record-high CO2 emissions.

Ervine’s documentary shows that the last time Earth experienced similar levels of atmospheric CO2 was more than four million years ago.

“Fossil fuels have become central to powering economic growth,” says Ervine. “They still provide roughly 80 per cent of global energy.” 

Changing this system is no easy task. Ervine worked her way through university and graduate school with jobs at an automotive assembly plant and steel mill in her home province of Ontario. These jobs were in carbon-intensive industries, but they provided her—and other families—with a secure livelihood. 

“It's a challenge when we're talking about the kinds of deep transformations that need to happen because so many people's lives are going to be impacted in profound ways,” Ervine says. “It can provoke a lot of fear because you're asking, ‘What does this mean for my job? What does it mean for my family?’”

Ervine’s research looks at how just transitions and sustainable development for all might be possible within the context of carbon dependency. 

For Ervine, cutting emissions is key to combatting climate change. But as the effects of climate change have worsened, she says these reductions are not happening fast enough.

Ervine points to investments in things like carbon offsets as a way businesses and governments are delaying real, lasting change. In recent years, voluntary carbon offsetting has ballooned to a more than $2-billion industry. But research shows significant problems with carbon offsetting, which doesn’t actually lower emissions. 

“Part of my research has been about saying, when we know what needs to be done and how significant the problem is, why do we design policies that are not particularly effective?” says Ervine. 

As we look forward to a changing future, Ervine says more investments need to be made in phasing out fossil fuels and laying the groundwork for transformative and equitable change.  Democratic green energy, accessible mass public transit and sustainable food systems are just some of our many options. 

“Perhaps we can start reimagining a world where we reprioritize things that contribute to people’s well-being,” says Ervine. “It does require change, but we might actually get some pleasure and joy out of it.”

The Carbon Cage by Kate Ervine and Duy Linh Tu

Sustainability at Saint Mary’s University

Sustainability is a priority for Saint Mary’s University. Students, faculty and staff have committed to operating the campus in an environmentally responsible way. The university has made big strides in implementing sustainable practices and has developed a reputation for environmental responsibility.

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Green energy upgrades

Saint Mary’s has been working towards a greener campus by making several upgrades to buildings and campus operations. The university has already reached its 2025 target for greenhouse gas reduction, thanks to actions like replacing the steam heating plant with a high-efficiency hot water plant, using compact fluorescent and LED lights, switching from oil to natural gas and more.

Saint Mary’s will soon be home to the tallest solar-integrated building in North America with the renovation of Loyola Residence. And, thanks to a joint investment from the Government of Canada and Saint Mary’s announced in the spring of 2023, the university will bring in a swath of improvements including new solar panels, a green roof and other energy-efficiency features that together could more than double the university’s renewable energy production.

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Leading environmental education and research

Saint Mary’s is known for the School of the Environment, which has become a hub for environmental education, research and outreach. Students learn to apply knowledge from various academic disciplines to solve problems related to the sustainability of the global environment in the face of human development. The curriculum is far-reaching, with courses in areas such as energy, pollution, environmental ethics, green chemistry, physical and human geography, and more.

The university also hosts leading research centres, including the Community Conservation Research Network, which focuses on community conservation and sustainable livelihoods, and TransCoastal Adaptations which helps build climate-resilient coastal communities and ecosystems through nature-based solutions and strategies.

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More steps toward sustainability

Saint Mary’s continues to take action to reduce its carbon footprint and create a sustainable future. Whether it’s promoting active transportation by providing secure bike storage facilities and repair stations, offering discounted bus passes to students, faculty and staff to reduce pollution, or maintaining its Fair Trade Campus certification, Saint Mary’s is committed to environmental responsibility on and off campus.

Sustainability and technology solutions lead sixth annual National Retail Innovation Awards

L-R: Austin Castellanos (DSC), Josh Domingues (Flashfood), Virgile Ollivier (Livescale), Donny Ouyang (Blackcart), Dr. Ramesh Venkat (DSC)

Three Canadian retailers were recognized for sector leadership at the 2023 David Sobey Centre National Retail Innovation Awards.

“For a robust, competitive and successful Canadian retail sector, it's important for the industry to continue to innovate,” said David Sobey Centre (DSC) Director, Dr. Ramesh Venkat. “As a multidisciplinary research institute, we take pride in leading the way in supporting and championing innovation and new technologies to make further advancements in the sector.”

The winners used creative means to find solutions to advance technology, improve customer experiences and address sustainability.   

Meet the winners

Retail Sustainability Innovation Award: Flashfood

Josh Domingues

Flashfood is an innovative waste reduction solution that has successfully diverted over 40 million pounds of food from landfills while continuing to provide affordable access to food for consumers through an easy-to-use app. 

“This is great recognition for Flashfood, but we are nothing without our grocery partners who have given us an opportunity to make this incredible impact together.” - Josh Domingues BComm’13, Flashfood Founder.

Retail Technology Innovation Award: Livescale

Virgile Ollivier

Livescale is unique in the global market thanks to its integrated checkout, immersive client resources and outstanding customer service. It is changing how brands interact with communities by increasing customer engagement and sales.

“As a Canadian company, we were thrilled to receive the award as a recognition of our efforts in supporting Canadian retailers to adopt and succeed in social commerce. It rewards our mission as a company and motivates us to continue to achieve our vision for the retail space, and to continue empowering retailers, merchants and brands” – Virgile Ollivier, Livescale Founder.

Retail Customer Experience Innovation Award: Blackcart

Donny Ouyang

Blackcart is changing the future of e-commerce. Its innovative try-before-you-buy approach and proprietary fraud artificial intelligence provides a safe customer experience while increasing sales and merchants’ average order value.

"No one sets out on the chaotic ride of building a startup just for the sake of winning awards, so this recognition means the world to us. It's a fantastic reminder of all the hard work our team has invested in crafting impactful solutions for the retail industry." – Donny Ouyang, Blackcart Founder.

Keynote address

Tech entrepreneur and keynote speaker Lane Merrifield delivers his address to the crowd.

Tech entrepreneur and former “dragon” on CBC’s Dragons’ Den, Lane Merrifield, provided an impassioned keynote address to the crowded room of 200 people. Guests included members of the Sobey family and Sobeys Incorporated, retail business leaders, members of government, the local business community, students, faculty and staff. 

His keynote address challenged people in the room to not be afraid to take risks in their professional and personal lives. “Courage is a muscle that needs to be exercised,” Mr. Merrifield shared with the crowd. “What do we do with complex challenges and fears? We have to break them down into small, manageable bites—action cures fear.”

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Industry impact

President and CEO of the Retail Council of Canada Diane Briseboise and David Sobey Centre Director Dr. Ramesh Venkat stand for a photo.   

Disruptive forces have dramatically shifted the global retail landscape. Consumers have been looking to retailers to provide solutions to address sustainability, product accessibility and affordability to improve technology and customer experience. 

“By recognizing outstanding organizations for their unique contributions to retail, the David Sobey Centre continues to ensure that businesses can succeed, prosper and provide benchmarks for others to learn from and emulate,” said Diane Brisebois, David Sobey Advisory Council member and President & CEO of Retail Council of Canada. “The Retail Council of Canada is honoured and proud to support the Centre and these important awards.”

About the Awards

The awards were created in 2017 to recognize retailers and companies supporting the retail sector for their innovation and unique contributions to Canadian retailing each year. They specifically recognize the most innovative up-and-coming companies and change-makers in the retail industry.

About the David Sobey Centre for Innovation in Retailing & Services

The DSC is on the cusp of the most innovative, ground-breaking and cutting-edge changes in the retail industry. The Centre is the leading source of expertise in retailing and service management and prepares students to become industry leaders within Canada and globally. Every day the Centre is building a stronger and more vibrant national retail sector through research, innovation and education.

See photos from the National Retail Innovation Awards event on March 30, 2023

The Government of Canada and Saint Mary’s University invest $20 million in green technology and green energy

The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities

Alan R. Abraham, Jr., Chair of the Saint Mary’s University Board of Governors

Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray, MP Andy Fillmore, The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Natasha Fernandes, Alan R. Abraham, Jr.

SMU Engineering students

Touring the Sobeys Inspiration Hub under construction

Outside the Sobeys Inspiration Hub under construction

Andy Fillmore, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry and Member of Parliament for Halifax and The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities

Solar panel installation on Loyola Residence

It was standing room only for the announcement of a $20-million investment in green technology and green energy generation from the Government of Canada and Saint Mary’s University on April 4, 2023.  

Hundreds of Saint Mary’s faculty, students, staff and community members received the news from the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities, and Andy Fillmore, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry and Member of Parliament for Halifax, at a packed Loyola Conference Hall.  

“Saint Mary’s University has an extensive track record of equipping Nova Scotians, Canadians and students from around the world with the tools they need to succeed in their careers, particularly in the business sector,” says The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities. “These investments will improve the working and learning environment of every member of the university community, enhancing knowledge sharing and collaboration among the leaders of tomorrow’s green economy.”

A significant component of this investment is enhancements to the Sobeys Inspiration Hub, a new four-storey building currently under construction. The Sobeys Inspiration Hub is creating a new space for possibility, bringing together the energy and diversity of our students, world-class researchers and the industry-leading work of the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre with the expertise of our region’s expanding business community. The new additions include solar panels, integrated audio-visual communications technology and landscaping work. Construction in the interior of the Hub will enhance integration and collaboration among users.  

“Universities are at the forefront of producing and researching green energy. We are essential partners in the fight against climate change,” says Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray, President and Vice-Chancellor of Saint Mary’s University. “I want to thank the Government of Canada for its investment in Saint Mary’s University and our initiatives to reduce our carbon footprint as we move towards net zero. We are leading Atlantic Canada in this space, and with this investment, we will continue to advance a greener community and campus.” 

Enhancements as part of this investment in the Saint Mary’s campus include green technology additions to the Loyola Building, the Homburg Centre for Health & Wellness, the Patrick Power Library, the Burke Theatre and the McNally Theatre Auditorium. This includes new solar panels, a green roof and other energy-efficiency features for many of those buildings. 

“I want to thank Minister LeBlanc and the Government of Canada for their commitment to renewable energy and supporting carbon reduction and green infrastructure at Saint Mary’s University,” says Alan R. Abraham, Jr. BComm’80, Chair of the Saint Mary’s University Board of Governors. “The Sobeys Inspiration Hub is a dynamic new space coming to Saint Mary’s. This investment will reduce its carbon footprint and support expanding our green energy production on campus.”  

Saint Mary’s is a leader in carbon reduction and producing green energy in the East Coast post-secondary sector. These upgrades will more than double the university’s renewable energy production on campus.

Additional resources:  

• The Government of Canada invests in infrastructure modernization and green energy generation at Saint Mary’s University

• Creating the Space for Inspiration 

• $5-million gift energizes entrepreneurship at Saint Mary's University 

• Saint Mary’s University exceeds goal and timeline for greenhouse gas reduction  

Saint Mary’s becomes a Fair Trade Campus

Ever wonder where your hot cup of coffee comes from? At Saint Mary’s University, you can be sure your coffee is Fair Trade certified and farmers have received fair compensation for their product. In today’s globalized world, our purchases can significantly impact people around the globe and the environment. Saint Mary’s faculty, staff and students are dedicated to making a difference, and as a result of their efforts, all on-campus purchases are now Fair Trade certified.  

Fair Trade is an alternative approach to business based on partnerships between producers and consumers. Farmers receive a minimum price, improved terms, and a social premium that helps improve their lives and enables them to plan for their future. SMU professor and Canada Research Chair in International Development Studies, Gavin Fridell, is a noted expert on Fair Trade and recently published The Fair Trade Handbook: Building a Better World, Together.

"Saint Mary's University has long demonstrated academic leadership around issues of the global trade system and the role of Fair Trade in addressing injustices, we are pleased to welcome you as the 45th Fair Trade Campus of Canada. Saint Mary's students, faculty and staff continue to lead the way in taking initiatives that directly benefit farmers and producers in the Global South and build environmental resilience in their communities. Congratulations!"  says Loïc de Fabritus Gautier, Senior Manager of Advocacy & Citizen Engagement at Fair Trade Canada. 

Saint Mary’s meets a variety of requirements for the national program, including: 

• Ensuring all applicable food service locations on Saint Mary’s campus offer Fair Trade certified coffee, tea, and chocolate options as required by Fair Trade Canada standards. 

• Ensuring one Fair Trade chocolate option is available at all applicable snack vending machines on campus. 

• Establishing and maintaining a Fair Trade Committee for our campus (the Sustainability Sub-Committee on Fair Trade) that meets regularly to monitor and further Fair Trade at Saint Mary’s. 

SMU Dining hosted events and giveaways in early March to celebrate Saint Mary's campus certification. 

You can learn more at  Fair Trade Canada. 

SMU Dining celebrates Fair Trade, Feb 27-Mar 3

SMU Dining is hosting some fun events and give-aways to celebrate Fair Trade. Read on for details!

Monday, Feb 27

Free iced coffee giveaway at Student Centre Food Court, featuring our exclusive blend of Just Us! Fair Trade coffee, SMU Brew.

Located within the Student Centre Food Court, from 12:00pm while supplies last.

Tuesday, Feb 28

Boba (Bubble) Tea pop up in Dockside Dining Hall, featuring Just Us! Fair Trade tea.

Located within Dockside for meal plan members (or pay at the door), during the lunch period (11:30am – 2:30pm)

Wednesday, Mar 1

Meet the Just Us! team and learn about all things Fair Trade

Vicki Matthews from Just Us! and Michael Yarymowich, Aramark Canada’s Sustainability Director, will be on site to chat with students about what Fair Trade means and the Just Us-SMU Dining partnership; while enjoying free samples of products and Fair Trade swag!

Located in the Loyola Colonnade, from 11:00am – 2:00pm

Thursday, Mar 2

S’Mores Bar pop up in Dockside Dining Hall, featuring Just Us! Fair Trade chocolate.

Located within Dockside for meal plan members (or pay at the door), during the dinner period (4:30pm – 8:00pm)

Friday, Mar 3

Sustainability Trivia – Spin to Win! Trivia questions pertaining to all things Fair Trade

Located outside of Dockside Dining Hall, with prizes, swag and more to be won!

 
All week:

• Fair Trade Basket Giveaway via @SMUDiningHFX social media channels

• Official relaunch of SMU Dining’s Lug-a-Mug program

• $0.25 discount at non-franchised locations when using a reusable mug

Dr. Danika van Proosdij recognized for excellence in environmental research

Dr. Danika van Proosdij at Winter Convocation

Saint Mary’s University is pleased to announce that Dr. Danika van Proosdij was honoured with a President’s Award for Excellence in Research for her innovative work on the effects of climate change on the environment. The award was presented recently during the Winter 2023 convocation at Saint Mary’s University.

An international leader in her field and an established pioneer in the implementation of nature-based solutions for climate change adaptation, Dr. Danika van Proosdij has dedicated almost three decades to finding and promoting solutions to prevent coastal erosion and flooding. In the past six years, Dr. van Proosdij has received $15.8M in direct research funding from federal and international agencies.

“Time and again Dr. van Proosdij has proven to be a tremendous innovator in her field, and her prolific success in publishing and securing funding from federal agencies is recognition of the value of her work,” said Dr. Adam Sarty, Associate Vice-President, Research and Dean, Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research at Saint Mary’s.

“Her research on coastal ecosystems will become increasingly beneficial to coastal communities in Nova Scotia and potentially around the world as climate change necessitates new solutions. We are proud of the advancements she is making in this field, and that she is leading the next generation of researchers and environmental specialists.”

Dr. van Proosdij’s ability to embrace challenges from the individual through to the global scale is ultimately what sets her apart. Her work is collaborative, cross-disciplinary and transboundary between biophysical and social sciences; her efforts to address the effects of climate change on ecosystems and ultimately human systems will have a vital impact on the ecosystem in Nova Scotia and beyond.

“I’m proud of the results of decades of collaboration with provincial and federal governments and restoration industry leaders such as CB Wetlands Environmental Specialists have made a real impacton the protection of coastal ecosystems,” said Dr. van Proosdij. “I’m also gratified that this research and teaching is building capacity in the region, so that so much of this work can be done increasingly by trained people in our community.”

“We’re always happy to collaborate with others on restoration and rehabilitation of vulnerable areas; these partnerships have proven to be greater than the sum of their parts and lead to advanced knowledge in this field.”

It has been an especially successful year for Dr. van Proosdij; in the fall of 2022 she was elected as a new Fellow of The Royal Society of Canada and received the award at a ceremony in Calgary. Elected by their peers, the 102 new Fellows were chosen for their outstanding scholarly, scientific and artistic achievements. Founded in 1882, the Royal Society of Canada (RSC) recognizes excellence, advises the government and the larger society, and promotes a culture of knowledge and innovation in Canada and with other national academies around the world. She was also a finalist for a Discovery Award in the Professional of Distinction category.

As the Director of the TransCoastal Adaptations Centre for Nature-Based Solutions, Dr. van Proosdij has been engaged in understanding how the biophysical processes of coastal ecosystems respond to natural and anthropogenic drivers of change. As a leading expert in coastal geomorphology, she merges field studies of sediment transport and hydrodynamics with GIS and geo-visualizing technologies to assess and enhance the resilience of coastal systems.  This knowledge is then applied to the implementation of nature-based solutions on the ground.  She has also served as a scientific advisor to federal and provincial governments.

Dr. van Proosdij earned her PhD in Biophysical Processes and Environmental Analysis from the University of Guelph in 2001 and has been a professor in the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at Saint Mary’s since 1999. With a willingness to generously share her knowledge, she has provided a stimulating training environment for 136 highly qualified personal, from undergraduate to postgraduate levels. She has co-authored more than 42 papers and 105 technical reports, and has given 200+ presentations around the world.

The President's Award for Excellence in Research honours continued exceptional contributions to research and scholarship conducted by a full-time Saint Mary's University faculty member. More information can be found at smu.ca/fgsr/presidents-award.