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For the past two years, the Sustainability and Financial Management (SFM) program has partnered with Sustainable Waterloo Region (SWR) to plant micro-forests that enhance biodiversity and inspire environmental stewardship in our local community.
These micro-forests—small, carefully selected groupings of approximately 100 native trees in our case—serve as powerful symbols of sustainability in action.
SWR specializes in organizing planting events for small groups and our first-year SFM students eagerly participate in this annual event. Joined by program Co-Directors, the Program Manager, and staff members from across the School of Accounting and Finance, our incoming cohorts bring their enthusiasm and commitment to every planting day. SWR selects the location, and we show up with the energy and determination to make a difference.
In 2023, we worked together to plant saplings on the University of Waterloo’s north campus and in 2024 we expanded our efforts beyond the University to Conestogo Public School, where the elementary school students joined us in creating a vibrant new green space on their school grounds.
Our commitment to working with SWR reflects a growing tradition within the SFM program—one where sustainability isn’t just studied but practiced hands-on. Our ethos within the program is to not only study the environment (alongside accounting & finance, of course), but to do things that will have positive environmental outcomes.
Planting a micro-forest isn’t just about the trees; it’s a collaborative effort that involves teamwork, physical labour, and the satisfaction of seeing immediate results. Combined with the chance to enjoy the crisp fall air, it offers students a unique opportunity to connect with each other and their environment outside the classroom.
As the SFM Program Manager, I have greatly enjoyed this chance to work alongside the students and my colleagues. While planting trees can be physically demanding, it’s incredibly rewarding to witness the impact we’re making together! I look forward to more opportunities to engage with our broader community and building awareness of who we are and what we do.
