In Context: 5 Web Perspectives On A Story In The News

Sustainability on campus

(Toronto Star) Universities in Toronto are reflecting a national trend towards environmentally sustainable practices on campuses. The institutions are investing in green projects, such as bike co-ops, compost and recycling programs, rooftop gardens and alternative energy sources as a way to reduce both their costs and their carbon footprints. They have also upgraded their infrastructure, replacing old, inefficient heating systems with modern, energy-saving models-a move that has resulted in significantly reduced operating costs. York University estimates it save $2.7 million in 2008 as a result of the upgrades and it expects that number to rise to $5 million per year by 2011. Ryerson University cut its costs by $15 million over the course of 17 years due to its environmental improvements. Officials cite reduced operating costs as part of the reason for the changes, adding that their actions could stimulate more sustainable practices in general.

1.

George Stroumboulopoulos' crusade for a greener Canada

One Million Acts of Green
The host of CBC's "The Hour" presents an online community for reducing Canada's impact on the environment. Visitors can read about ways to cut down on their energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, then pledge an act of green of their own. The suggested acts are practical and easy to adopt, making environmental self-improvement something immediate and easily attainable. The website also keeps a cumulative count of all pledges, as well as the overall reduction of greenhouse gases that has resulted. Videos and blogs from eco-superstar David Suzuki is an added bonus.

2.

More than just fossil fuels

Scotian Windfields
A Nova Scotia company specializing in the production of renewable resource technology, such as wind farms, solar panels and tidal generators. The website shows both the environmental and economic benefits of the respective technologies. There is information for governments, institutions and large companies, as well as individual homeowners. The website also details the state of renewable energy use in Nova Scotia while describing the current roadblocks to its expansion.

3.

Reuse, reduce, recycle ... and compost

Composting 101
A comprehensive guide to everything you ever wanted to know about composting. While recycling partially reduces waste, composting organic waste brings even greater benefits. Tips for a successful backyard compost will help provide a rich soil for gardeners. For apartment dwellers or others without a backyard, information on vermicomposting is provided (Whether you try it or not, you'll want to read about it).

4.

Grow your own

The Rooftop Garden Project
Rooftop gardens are a creative way for urbanites with limited space to indulge their green thumbs. This website gives all the information about the benefits of rooftop gardens you could ask for, but the best parts are the heaps of pictures of leafy, green gardens and ideas for making planters from unwanted household items.  Not only can you grow your own flowers, plants and food, but you can cut down on waste by reusing instead of throwing away.

5.

Halifax students' green guide

Dalhousie Office of Sustainability
Dalhousie University recently launched a new degree program in sustainability and they're greening their campus accordingly. This related website provides students with a resource for improving their environmental impact, with news about sustainability events on campus, tips on waste and energy reduction and information about getting involved in local green projects. It's a student-specific guide to practical ways university students can reduce their impact on the environment.