Welcome to the Sustainability Office at the University of Waterloo, the central hub for sustainability action and information on campus. We work to integrate sustainability thinking and climate action into academics, operations, and engagement.
Sustainability issues like the climate crisis affect everyone, causing extreme weather, economic insecurity, and health and wellbeing impacts locally and globally – disproportionally so for marginalized and racialized people. The University of Waterloo community has an essential role to play in advancing a low-carbon, equitable, and resilient future. Not only does Waterloo have a large environmental footprint, it also has enormous potential to tap into the collective talent, skill, and innovative mindset of the campus community that will have ripple effects around the world.
From important individual actions to systems changes, we are working with leadership, staff, students, and faculty to build a more sustainable campus together.
Learn more about how you can join this journey, on campus and beyond:
Events
Free Store Drop-In
Looking to fill out your space this fall without spending a dime? The Free Store has gently used household essentials, school supplies, kitchenware, and more, all free for the taking. Whether you just moved into residence or are simply restocking for the term ahead, there's a good chance you'll find something useful. And if you've got items to pass along, donations are always welcome. Stop by and see what's available!
Green Office: Scorecard Tips and Tricks
Join us for a practical session where we'll break down the scorecard step by step and share insider tips for maximizing your score.
Free Store Drop-In
As November rolls in and the term starts winding toward exams, the Free Store is a great place to pause and take a look around. Need a mug for your late-night study sessions, some extra kitchenware, or a few things to make your space cozier as it gets colder out? Stop by and browse our current selection of gently used household essentials, school supplies, kitchenware, and more, all free for the taking.
News
World Water Day 2026: Key takeaways from this year
World Water Day is an international celebration of water. It is coordinated by the United Nations and focuses on accelerating SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation for all by 2030.
BioBlitz 2026 Recap: A week of discovering campus biodiversity
From September 21 to 25, students, staff, faculty, and community members came together for the fourth annual University of Waterloo BioBlitz.
Helping birds see the difference: Giving QNC a feather friendly update
Society for Environmental Restoration – University of Waterloo (SER-UW) chapter, Bird Friendly Kitchener and Bird Friendly Waterloo partnered with the Sustainability Action Fund (SAF) to install Feather Friendly decals on the first and second floors of the Northeast side of the Mike and Ophelia Lazaridis Quantum-Nano Centre (QNC) building.