How Might University Campuses Become Test Beds for Scalable Climate Action?

Universities are foundational to the climate solution equation, often overlooked as dynamic operational ecosystems where practical sustainability can be practiced, tested, and refined. As cities within cities, British Columbia’s (B.C) higher education institutions serve as academic sanctuaries for nearly 300,000 students, forming a melting pot of innovation and diverse cultures. These vibrant communities are positioned to act as incubators for sustainable practices. Leveraging their strong academic and research bases, they can initiate “small but safe bets” in their operational frameworks that have the capacity to be upscaled into global climate action solutions.

This event will unite representatives from British Columbia’s universities, government, NGO and multilateral organisations to share insights into how they are operationalising climate solutions and transforming food systems. The discussion will centre on the implementation and expansion of initiatives around local, Indigenous, plant-forward foods and zero-waste practices.