For the first time, The University of Western Ontario’s greenhouse gas emissions data has been captured in a comprehensive report, Western’s Greenhouse Gas Inventory: 2009 Emissions, a big step forward in measuring the university’s carbon footprint.
The results of the report are being presented to the general public at the University Community Centre, Room. 37, on August 12 (11:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.).
Physical Plant Environmental Coordinators Mary Lopez and Syed Zaidi will share their report on Western’s carbon footprint with the campus community on Aug. 12.
Physical Plant Environmental Coordinators (EC), Mary Lopez and Syed Zaidi will focus on the results of the report, the methodology, and an overview of recommendations. Attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions and approach the ECs following the presentation.
Evidence suggests that an increased concentration of greenhouse gases is contributing to global warming. Although carbon dioxide is considered the flagship greenhouse gas, methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases typically have greater global warming potential.
“Measuring our GHG emissions is essential for managing the environmental impact of the organization’s operations over time,” says Physical Plant Communications Officer Brandon Watson. ” It also helps when evaluating new business opportunities and improving upon resource inefficiencies.”
In an effort to reduce GHG emissions, both federal and provincial governing bodies have developed mandatory reporting programs. Under Ontario Regulation 452/09, organizations with emissions of 25,000 tonnes of equivalent CO2 (eCO2) or greater must report. Environment Canada also requires GHG quantification, but specifies participation from organizations emitting 50,000 tonnes eCO2 or greater.