The Green Review

As we prepare for the new school year, UNB Sustainability wants to continue encouraging community members to engage in more sustainable actions. Here are the pillars we use to guide you toward a more sustainable return to campus this fall.

Bring your own

Plastic pollution has been recognized as a pressing environmental issue worldwide. More specifically, single-use plastic. Research shows that plastic does not fully degrade. Instead, it breaks into smaller pieces known as microplastics, posing several threats to terrestrial and marine ecosystems.

To address this pressing issue, the federal government has prohibited the manufacture and sale of single-use plastic. While efforts at the government level will make a big difference, individuals still have a role to play. To avoid single-use plastics, we encourage you to bring your own.

To get you started, carry these book bag essentials - a reusable water bottle, mug, reusable cutlery, and a packed lunch to avoid unnecessary plastic when taking beverages or eating a meal during the day.

Travel green

When commuting to and around campus, consider sustainable transportation options. Not only is it good for the environment and our general well-being, but it is also cost-effective to travel green.

Take advantage of the nice weather by walking, biking, and zipping around on scooters during fall. There are over 20 bike racks and a fix-it station on the Fredericton campus to help cover maintenance needs. In addition, there are five bike racks on the Saint John campus. Consider carpooling or using the bus if none of these travel options are accessible. UNB also offers SafeRide, a program that provides students with free transportation to their homes from campus.

If you haven't already, check out our sustainability map, a helpful tool highlighting locations of walking trails, bike racks, and bus stops on campus.

Spread the word and get involved

The final pillar is vital in the movement toward a sustainable lifestyle. Whether speaking up for climate justice, ecosystem restoration or biodiversity conservation, spreading the word can impact how those around you perceive sustainability.

As social beings, we rely on cooperation to survive. Hence, the need to work together to bring about significant changes within and beyond our sphere of influence. These can be achieved through making our voices heard and taking small actions together. Therefore, we would like you to spread the word and get involved on campus and in your local community.

You can spread the word by sharing your work or ideas on sustainability through social media platforms, at family dinners or attending a letter-writing campaign to push for policy changes. There are many ways to get involved on campus. Learn how you can get involved and let us know what you want to see.