Sustainable Campus Initiatives
What sustainable feature at the Cowichan campus helps reduce solar heat gain in the summer?
The green roof system
Which marine species are being bred at the Deep Bay Marine Field Station to improve resilience to climate change?
Pacific scallops and Pacific oysters.
What does the Indigenous teaching of q’ushin’tul at the Cowichan campus mean?
Walking together.
What is a common feature of sustainable cities that helps manage rainwater and reduce flooding?
Green roofs or permeable pavements.
How many UN SDG's are there?
17
How does the geo-exchange system at the Cowichan campus contribute to sustainability?
It provides heating and cooling by using stable ground temperatures, saving 45% in energy compared to traditional systems.
What environmental issues are studied at the Deep Bay Marine Field Station to support ocean sustainability?
Ocean acidification, climate change, and impacts on the marine microbiome.
How do Indigenous teachings influence sustainability initiatives at VIU?
By promoting a holistic approach that balances social, economic, and environmental sustainability.
Which city is known for its extensive bike infrastructure and is often considered a model for sustainable urban mobility?
Copenhagen, Denmark.
What year did the UN SDGs set to originally be completed by?
2030
What water conservation method is used in the Cowichan campus’s landscaping?
Planting native and drought-resistant plants that only use rainwater collected from the green roof.
How does the heat exchange system at the Deep Bay Marine Field Station support sustainable energy use?
It uses the thermal properties of incoming saltwater to heat and cool the building, reducing energy consumption.
In what way did the Deep Bay Marine Field Station collaborate with First Nations for sustainable aquaculture?
By developing the scallop breeding project to support First Nations' interests in sustainable aquaculture.
Which city in Western Europe implemented the "Superblocks" urban planning model to reduce traffic, increase green spaces, and promote community engagement?
Barcelona, Spain. The "Superblocks" model restricts traffic within designated blocks, prioritizes pedestrians and cyclists, and transforms streets into community spaces with green areas.
Which SDG emphasizes the need to "Protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems," and what are some specific targets of this goal?
Goal 15 - Life on Land. Specific targets include combating desertification, halting biodiversity loss, and promoting sustainable management of forests.
How do light sensors at the Deep Bay Marine Field Station contribute to the building’s sustainability?
They automatically adjust indoor lighting based on natural light levels to reduce electricity usage.
Why is shellfish aquaculture considered an environmentally sustainable industry when managed well?
It requires minimal inputs, improves water quality by filtering, and supports local ecosystems when managed responsibly.
How does acknowledging the traditional territory of the Snuneymuxw people contribute to sustainability at VIU?
It fosters respect, inclusivity, and collaborative approaches to sustainability that honor Indigenous knowledge and practices.
Which country in Asia do you think has implements an initiative that uses "urban forests" to combat air pollution and improve biodiversity?
The initiative is happening in Liuzhou, China. The city incorporates green buildings covered with plants and trees, creating a self-sufficient urban ecosystem that absorbs CO2 and produces oxygen.
Which UN SDG has the following goals: implementing sustainable practices in businesses, reducing waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling, and reuse, and promoting sustainable public procurement practices.
Goal 12 - Responsible use and Consumption