Sustainable practices
(picture: University of Toronto)
You can find more in our Toolkit.
The “green roofs” initiative in Toronto, Canada: This initiative involves the installation of green roofs (rooftops covered with vegetation) on buildings in the city to improve air quality, reduce stormwater runoff, and provide other environmental benefits. The initiative has been successful in reducing energy use, improving air quality, and enhancing the urban environment.
The “solarize” program in Portland, USA: This program is a group purchasing program that helps communities in Portland install solar panels on their homes and businesses. By pooling resources and leveraging bulk purchasing power, the program has been successful in increasing the adoption of solar energy in the city and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The “transition towns” movement in the UK: The transition towns movement is a community-led initiative that seeks to build resilience and reduce reliance on fossil fuels in local communities. The movement involves the development of local initiatives such as community gardens, renewable energy projects, and waste reduction programs. The movement has been successful in promoting sustainability and community engagement in the UK.
The “Eco-Schools” program in the UK: The Eco-Schools program is an international initiative that encourages schools to take a holistic approach to sustainability. The program involves the development of an action plan for sustainability, the implementation of sustainability initiatives in the school, and the engagement of the school community in sustainability issues. The program has been successful in promoting sustainability in schools and engaging young people in sustainability issues.
The “Green Deal” initiative in the Netherlands: The Green Deal initiative is a government-led program that promotes energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy in buildings. The initiative involves the development of partnerships between the government, businesses, and other organizations to promote sustainability in the built environment. The initiative has been successful in increasing energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy in the Netherlands.
The “circular economy” initiative in Finland: The circular economy initiative is a government-led program that promotes the transition to a more sustainable and resource-efficient economy. The initiative involves the development of policies and initiatives that encourage the reuse and recycling of resources, and the reduction of waste and environmental impacts. The initiative has been successful in promoting sustainability and resource efficiency in Finland.