Spring is finally here!  Bicycles are blooming on the streets and paths, the smell of chain lube is in the air and helmet hair is back in fashion.  Us folks in the Sustainability Office have been busy working on making improvements over the winter to the College’s bike infrastructure.  Check out a laundry list below of some of the new and improved bike supports and activities on campus! 

Spring Bike Events: 

Given the popularity of our previous cycling-specific “Help Desks”, the Sustainability Office will once again offer a bike commuting help desk in the Roblin Atrium at EDC on Wed, May 28 from 12-4 PM.  We’ll be answering questions on what to wear, how to get your bike ready to ride and the best routes to campus.  We’ll also have a repair stand set up to offer free basic tune-ups and mechanical advice.  Come find us to ask any questions you might have and enter our draw for a set of bike lights. 

June is just around the corner and that means the Commuter Challenge is too!  The Commuter Challenge (June 1st-7th) is a friendly school & workplace competition to encourage active and sustainable travel. Any kilometers you travel using active and/or sustainable modes of transportation that are related to your daily commutes qualify. That could include your bike ride, walk or roll to work, taking transit as well as carpooling. You can register for the Commuter Challenge using the RRC Polytech link here.   There are lots of prizes to be won from Green Action Centre and the College’s Sustainability Office.  More details on prizes soon! 

Bike to Work Day is on Tues, June 10^th this year.  The College will be hosting a pit stop at the north side of the Omand’s Creek train bridge from 630AM-9AM.  Stop by for coffee and snacks, minor tune-ups and repairs, or just some friendly chit chat with fellow RRC Polytech cyclists and staff.   

PGI Bike Room Refresh : This spring saw a total overhaul of the PGI indoor bike room.  New features include improved racks (both vertical and floor parking styles), a set of DIY repair tools & pump, a water bottle fill station, a door operator button, benches, lockers and even a mirror so you can finesse that helmet hair before heading to work/class. 

Over the winter we added a DIY bike repair toolbox for use at Manitou a bi Bii Daziigae.  It contains a basic set of bike repair tools, a pump, some chain lube, as well as some spare bike tubes in a variety of sizes.  If you’re stuck at EDC with a flat tire or need to make a basic repair, check out the toolbox using your staff/student ID from the security officers at the MBDG security desk.  If you need a tube to get home, please use one from the box. 

New outdoor bike racks: Roblin building vestibules have had a number of rack spaces added, and with campus security seated right nearby, these spots are more secure than ever for locking your bike up.  The William Ave vestibule also has a set of tools and pump for minor repairs/refills.  A handful of racks are being added in the coming weeks to the Elgin Plaza, as this is a high demand parking area in spring and fall.  Lastly the old racks outside of PGI, near Old Market Square, are being replaced with newer, higher quality models that will be bolted down with tamper proof hardware.

At NDC we added a set of racks at the covered main entrance just north of the bus loop.  We also added a pair of racks inside the East vestibule at the bus loop, for winter cyclists who’ve wanted to keep their e-bikes warm in the winter.  But feel free to use those year-round of course! 

See you out there!

On April 23, RRC Polytech students and staff came together to celebrate the winners of the 2025 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Student Competition.

At RRC Polytech, we understand that the choices we make today shape the well-being of our communities and the environment for generations to come. That’s why we proudly signed the SDG Accord, have participated in SDG Month Canada, and last year launched our Sustainability Strategy—a roadmap to guide our efforts in embedding sustainability throughout the college.

As part of these efforts, we hosted the SDG Student Competition, inviting students to share how they are integrating the SDGs into their academic work. The many responses we received were inspiring—showcasing innovative solutions to pressing environmental and social challenges. We extend our sincere thanks to all the students who participated for their creativity, commitment, and passion for building a more equitable and sustainable future.

The competition winners are as follows:

Best Overall Submission: Sophie Walker for her project “Climate-Resilient Nursing: Building Student Capacity in Healthcare Settings.”

Top Applied Research Entry: Alyssa Gayot and Mary Torrefalma for their project “Building Envelope Design Competition – City of Winnipeg Arena Redevelopment and Expansion.”

Top Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Entry: Gerri Chevillard for her project “Addressing the Digital Divide in Winnipeg’s North End.”

Top Academic Assignment: Tosin Adewumi for the project “Sustainable Future Dashboard.”

Claire May Tuazon and her sister Charlene Joy Tuazon during their performance of “One Day” by Matisyahu.

To close the event, attendees enjoyed a musical performance by Claire May Tuazon, a graduating student from the Indigenous Social Entrepreneurship program, accompanied by her sister Charlene. They performed “One Day” by Matisyahu—a song that reflects the hope for peace and unity represented in SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. It was a meaningful and uplifting way to end the celebration.

We left the event feeling inspired by the creativity and commitment of students and staff across the College. We are already looking forward to next year’s competition and to continuing the important work of advancing the SDGs at RRC Polytech.

Throughout March, RRC Polytech proudly celebrated SDG Month Canada, a national initiative that brings campuses together to explore and act on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). From hands-on workshops to creative contests, this month was all about learning, connecting, and making sustainability part of everyday life. Students, staff, and faculty engaged in activities that demonstrated how each of us can contribute to a more sustainable future.  

Here’s a look back at the highlights: 

Sustainable Development Goals Student Competition 

We’re excited to share that soon we’ll be announcing the winners of this year’s Sustainable Development Goals Student Competition. We’re pleased with the level of interest the competition sparked among students, showing that many are eager to explore how sustainability connects to their lives, studies, and future careers. Thank you to everyone who participated! 

Snow Me the Money! Snow Sculpture Contest (Goal 13: Climate Action) 

Thank you to everyone who took part in this creative and climate-focused tradition. We have observed shifts in weather patterns, highlighting how climate change is altering environmental conditions and impacting local ecosystems. The sculptures and the stories behind them highlighted the importance of Goal 13: Climate Action, calling attention to the urgent need for climate awareness and solutions. Congratulations to the winning team and all participants! 

Winning Sculpture Contest 2025 

United for Zero Hunger: RRCSA Break-FAST Program (Goal 2: Zero Hunger)  

A huge thank you to the Students’ Association for their continued partnership and support throughout SDG Month.. The Break-FAST program reflects the importance of Goal 2: Zero Hunger and food security by promoting access to nutritious food and fostering a sense of community on campus. Ensuring that students have the resources to start their day with a healthy meal contributes to academic success and overall well-being. 

Button Up! Sustainable Sewing Workshops (Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production) 

Thank you to our partner, Campus Well-Being, for hosting two hands-on workshops that promoted reuse, repair, and sustainable fashion. These events supported Goal 12 by encouraging participants to extend the life of their clothing and reduce textile waste. From replacing buttons to personalizing garments, it was great to see our community embrace the values of conscious consumption. 

Don’t miss Hem It Up! A Sustainable Sewing Workshop – April Sessions. 

Manitoba Gardening 101 (Goals 2, 12 & 13) 

Thank you to everyone who registered and participated in this session focused on local food production and sustainable gardening practices. This workshop, hosted in collaboration with Campus Well-Being, supported multiple goals: Goal 2: Zero Hunger, Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, and Goal 13: Climate Action. 

This is just the beginning – more gardening sessions are coming! Manitoba Gardening 101 and Planting Workshops  

Looking Ahead 

While SDG Month may be ending, our commitment to sustainability continues year-round. We invite everyone in the RRC Polytech community to stay engaged, whether through future workshops, classroom learning, or everyday actions that support the SDGs. 

Thank you to all our partners, participants, and supporters for making SDG Month a success! 

RRC Polytech is excited to participate in SDG Month Canada 2025 this March, a national collaborative initiative to increase awareness and engagement with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on college and university campuses nationwide. As a proud signatory of the SDG Accord, RRC Polytech is dedicated to advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals by integrating the SDGs into our campus culture, curriculum, and operations.  

Throughout March, we invite students, staff, and faculty to join us in a series of interactive workshops, events, and initiatives designed to inspire action and collaboration toward a more sustainable future. 

Upcoming SDG Month Events at RRC Polytech:

Now Accepting Submissions: SDG Student Competition 

Have a project that supports sustainability and aligns with one or more of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)? Submit your work to compete for the top award of $1,000! 

Eligible Projects: Coursework-based or independent sustainability projects 
Who Can Apply: Current students, as an individual or a team 
Application Deadline: Monday, March 24 

Showcase your impact and contribute to a more sustainable future! 

Learn more, and enter your submission.

Snow Me the Money! Snow Sculpture Contest (Goal 13: Climate Action) 

Get creative with snow! For the third year in a row, RRC Polytech invites students, staff, and faculty to participate in our beloved Snow Me the Money! snow sculpture contest. This event highlights the joy of winter while raising awareness about climate change. By creatively engaging with our winter environment, we reflect on the impacts of climate change and the importance of sustainability.  

March 3-6 | Notre Dame Campus & Regional Campuses. 

Learn more about this contest.

United for Zero Hunger: RRCSA Break-FAST Program (Goal 2: Zero Hunger) 

For the second year, we are partnering with the Red River College Student Association (RRCSA) to host a free breakfast for students, supporting Goal 2: Zero Hunger. This initiative ensures students have access to nutritious meals to start their day while fostering a sense of community. The RRCSA Break-FAST Program helps alleviate financial stress and promotes a supportive campus environment where no student starts the day hungry. 

March 5 | 8:30 – 9:30 AM | Exchange District Campus (EDC) 
March 6 | 8:30 – 9:30 AM | Notre Dame Campus (NDC) 

Webinar: Sports, SDGs, and Climate Action (Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being & Goal 13: Climate Action) 

Explore the connections between sports, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and climate action in this engaging discussion hosted by University of the Fraser Valley, Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan), and the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN). 

This webinar will feature Olympic athletes, sustainability experts, and representatives from colleges and institutes, offering insights into how sports and physical activity can contribute to climate action while inspiring positive change. 

March 13 | 2:00 – 3:15 PM EST | Online 

More information and registration.

Button Up! A Sustainable Sewing Workshop (Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production) 

Join us for Button Up! A Sustainable Sewing Workshop, a partnership between the Sustainability Office and Campus Wellbeing. Learn basic sewing skills, how to replace buttons, and creative ways to personalize sweaters, shirts, and dresses using buttons.  

This initiative supports Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production by fostering a culture of reuse and repair, minimizing landfill waste, and encouraging sustainable fashion. All materials provided, or bring your own clothing for hands-on practice! 

March 13 | 12:00 – 1:00 PM | EDC 
March 20 | 12:00 – 1:00 PM | NDC 

Learn more and register.

Additionally, don’t miss Hem It Up! A Sustainable Sewing Workshop – April Sessions 

Manitoba Gardening 101 and Planting Workshops  
(Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production & Goal 13: Climate Action) 

Interested in growing your own food? Join us for Manitoba Gardening 101, a hands-on workshop series for novice gardeners, hosted in collaboration with Campus Wellbeing and the Sustainability Office. Learn essential skills, from starting seeds indoors to selecting the best plants for Manitoba’s climate. 

This initiative supports Goal 12 by reducing food waste, and Goal 13 by promoting local and sustainable food systems. Staff and students are welcome! 

March 26 | Starting Seeds & Gardening Basics | 12:10 – 12:50 PM | Greenhouse, NDC 

Don’t miss the April and May sessions!  

Learn more and register.

RRC Polytech Joins the Campus Biodiversity Network (Goal 15: Life on Land) 

On March 31, RRC Polytech will officially join the Campus Biodiversity Network, a community that   connects students to nature and provides biodiversity profiles for campuses, while contributing to international research on urban greenspaces.. This initiative aligns with Goal 15: Life on Land, reinforcing our commitment to conserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable ecosystems. 

By joining this network, we aim to: 

• Build community through a shared commitment to campus biodiversity 

• Raise awareness about local wildlife and conservation efforts  

• Empower students and staff to take small, meaningful actions for sustainability 

• Create accessible biodiversity profiles for our campus 

• Contribute to international research on urban biodiversity 

Using the iNaturalist App 

To support this initiative, we will be using the iNaturalist app to document biodiversity on campus. The app allows us to: 

• Record observations – Snap photos of plants and wildlife around campus 

• Share with fellow naturalists – Contribute to a growing community of biodiversity  

• Discuss your findings – Learn from experts and help identify species 

This collaboration enhances our sustainability efforts while fostering well-being through nature immersion.  

The RRC Polytech Sustainability Office is pleased to announce the second annual Sustainable Development Goals Student Competition! The competition provides an opportunity to celebrate the valuable work that students, instructors, and researchers are undertaking in support of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) here at RRC Polytech.

Learn more about the Sustainable Development Goals, their targets and indicators here. To learn more about RRC Polytech’s commitment to the SDGs, read about our signing of the SDG Accord.

The 2025 competition is sponsored by Crosier Kilgour. Three cash awards and a special recognition prize are available:

1. Best Overall Submission $1000
2. Special Prize for Top Applied Research Entry $500
3. Special Prize for Top Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Entry $500
4. Special Recognition Award for Top Academic Assignment

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the eligibility requirements?

All currently enrolled students at RRC Polytech are eligible to apply. Students may enter the contest as an individual or as a team. Projects must have taken place in the 2024/2025 academic year.

Do we have to use the award money towards implementing a project? 

No, the prize money may be used by you/your team however you wish.

Can I submit a project that was part of a course assignment?

Yes. Course-related projects are eligible for the award.

Does my submission need to include applied research?

No. Although there is a prize specifically to recognize the top applied research project, we are interested in all sustainability-related projects, research, studies and learning happening here at RRC Polytech! Eligible submissions include, but are not limited to innovative designs, business plans, capstone projects, demonstrations, case studies and more.

What is the evaluation criteria?

The adjudication committee will look for clear descriptions of:
• The “where, why, what, when and how” of your project.
• How your project supports sustainability and one or more of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
• How your project may contribute to ongoing momentum towards sustainability.

How do I apply?

To apply please fill out the application form below. If you would prefer a downloadable application form or have any questions regarding your submission, please email: sustainability@rrc.ca. Applications must be received by March 24th, 2025.

RRC Polytech is proud to recognize Len Wiens, one of the 2024 BRAVO Award winners for Sustainability Leadership. Len’s vision, dedication, and innovative approach have significantly advanced our institution’s commitment to sustainability, particularly in the field of zero-emission vehicle systems. 

Len has been with Red River College Polytech for 15 years and is currently an instructor in the Automotive Technologies program. Over these years, Len has been instrumental in ensuring that RRC Polytech’s courses on zero-emission vehicle systems are accurate and include the most up-to-date resources available. Thanks to his tireless efforts, our students are graduating with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the rapidly evolving automotive industry.  

Pioneering Innovation in Alternative Fuel Technology 

As a pioneer in the field of zero-emission vehicles, Len has led the development of four Alternative Fuel Technology micro-credential courses: Introduction to Electric Vehicle Technology, Electric Vehicle Computing and Communication Systems, Fundamentals of Hydrogen Production, and Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles. These courses, the first of their kind at the post-secondary level in Canada, are critical in preparing students for the future of the transportation industry. Without them, technicians would have to travel out of province for specialized training. 

Making an Impact Beyond the Classroom 

Len’s commitment to sustainability extends far beyond his role as an instructor. He has invested countless hours and resources into leading initiatives in alternative fuel technologies. His efforts have resulted in valuable industry partnerships, including collaborations with Manitoba Public Insurance, Diesel Tech Industries, Toromont, New Flyer, Winnipeg Transit, and Mercedes-Benz. 

Len’s influence also extends to the national level through his position on the Canadian Standards Association committee, where he has helped establish safety standards for electric vehicles. This work ensures that Canada is prepared to handle the unique challenges of this rapidly advancing field. 

Research and education: a perfect combination  

Research and education in sustainability at RRC Polytech play a critical role in shaping the future of our community and industry. As Len notes, the integration of research into our courses ensures that students receive the most current and applicable knowledge. “It’s the research that fuels our courses,” he emphasizes, particularly when dealing with cutting-edge technologies like electric and hydrogen vehicles. By staying ahead of the curve and actively engaging with industry partners, RRC Polytech not only prepares students for emerging challenges but also contributes significantly to advancing sustainable practices in the broader community. “We got ahead of the game a little bit for the college, and that’s something I’m pretty proud of,” Len reflects, underscoring the institution’s proactive approach to sustainability education. 

Leading with Humility and Dedication 

When asked about his BRAVO Award, Len is quick to share the credit with his team. “I couldn’t do any of this alone,” emphasizing the importance of teamwork and collaboration with his colleagues. Whether it’s securing the right tools, organizing hands-on training sessions, or simply exchanging ideas, Len acknowledges that everyone plays a role in their success. 

Len Wiens embodies exceptional dedication and leadership in promoting sustainability, both within our institution and beyond. His outstanding contributions have elevated RRC Polytech to a national leader in alternative fuel technology education and training, making a significant impact in combating climate change and advancing clean technologies. 

Thank you very much Len for your leadership and significant contributions to sustainability at RRC Polytech! 

The sustainability office is celebrating waste reduction week with an event, a contest and a giveaway! 

E-Waste Drive from October 21-25: This event allows staff and students to responsibly dispose of unwanted electronics, accessories, and small appliances. Drop-off locations include:

NDC: Library Hallway

EDC: Outside Roblin Centre Shipping and Receiving (W101)

Circular Economy Contest: We are also promoting a battery recycling contest through our partners at Call2Recycle: Enter Now – Circular Economy Contest. They are giving away cash prizes of up to $5000 just for recycling your batteries! Not bad! We’ll have battery recycling boxes and QR codes for entering set up alongside our E-waste bins, located across from the library in the mall at NDC and beside shipping and receiving (W101) in the Roblin Center (EDC).

Chair Giveaway: On Wed, Oct. 23 starting at 10:30 AM the Sustainability team will be giving away a selection of the College’s excess used office chairs.  Chairs will be available in the hallway outside room B105.  One chair per person please. All chairs are pre-loved, but still functional and may be just what you need for your home office upgrade. There will also be a selection of office supplies to be re-homed and free binders in every colour of the rainbow! 

Waste Reduction Week at RRC Polytech: Embracing a Circular Economy Through Waste Diversion

As we celebrate Waste Reduction Week, it’s a perfect time to reflect on how we can minimize our environmental footprint and adopt more sustainable practices. This week offers an opportunity to rethink our consumption habits and explore ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle. At RRC Polytech, we’re committed to fostering a circular economy through robust waste diversion efforts and ensuring that materials are kept in use as long as possible

The concept of a circular economy is built on the idea of extending the lifecycle of products, reducing waste, and regenerating natural systems. Unlike the traditional linear model—where resources are extracted, used, and then discarded—a circular economy focuses on reducing waste at the source, reusing materials, and recycling them into new products. By adopting this approach, RRC Polytech aims to build a more resilient, environmentally friendly future, creating value while minimizing harm to the planet.

Prioritizing Waste Diversion at RRC Polytech

At RRC Polytech, waste diversion is a cornerstone of our sustainability efforts. Our goal is to reduce the amount of waste we generate and divert as much as possible from landfills. This not only helps manage waste more efficiently but also supports conservation efforts, preserves resources, and cultivates a more environmentally conscious campus community.

At the core of our waste management strategy is the “Waste Diversion Pyramid,” a framework that helps us prioritize waste reduction methods with the lowest environmental impact. This hierarchy guides our efforts, focusing on prevention, reuse, recycling, and—only as a last resort—disposal. Here’s how RRC Polytech puts these principles into action:

1. Reduce/Prevent: At the top of the pyramid is the goal of reducing waste at its source. Preventing waste before it is generated can significantly cut down the materials that need management. RRC Polytech supports this through initiatives like Water Bottle Refill Stations, the PaperCut Program, and a Sustainable and Socially Responsible Procurement Policy.

2. Reuse/Repair: Extending the life cycle of products through reuse and repair is another key part of waste diversion. This prevents items from becoming waste prematurely and allows them to serve new purposes. Programs like the Furniture Reuse initiative and NDC Campus Free Shelf exemplify how RRC Polytech is encouraging the reuse of resources, helping to keep materials in circulation longer.

3. Recycle/Compost: While lower on the hierarchy these processes are still essential to our waste management strategy. They convert materials into new products, easing the pressure on landfills and conserving natural resources. Our programs include:

• Hallway Recycling Program: This program ensures that materials like paper, plastics, glass, aluminum cans, and more are sorted and processed at the appropriate facilities. This helps recover valuable materials and reintegrate them into the production cycle.

• Compost Programs: Composting plays a crucial role in RRC Polytech’s organic waste management. At the Notre Dame Campus, we run a pre-consumer compost program, while the Paterson GlobalFoods Institute includes post-consumer waste. The compost produced is used to enrich the soil on our grounds, closing the loop on organic waste.

4. Disposal: When items can’t be reduced, reused, or recycled, we ensure they are disposed of responsibly, especially when dealing with hazardous or chemical waste. By keeping this step as our last resort, we reduce our overall environmental impact.

Recycling 101 at RRC Polytech: Ten Things You Should Know  

1. Coffee cups: Hot coffee & drink cups go in waste bins. Clear-plastic iced coffee cups (#5 plastic) are recyclable. Better yet, put your drink in a re-useable mug!  

2. Recyclables: Plastics #1-5 and #7, glass, aluminum/tin cans, tetrapaks/juice boxes, & milk cartons/jugs go in green hallway recycling bins. No styrofoam, #6 or black plastic!  

3. Paper: Recycle paper, books, magazines, catalogues and flyers in blue hallway bins. 

4. Cardboard: Please flatten ALL boxes and place behind hallway blue bin.  

5. Pens/Batteries/Plastic bags: You can recycle these items in our Re-bins! Located at NDC: outside the Campus Store, Building T (south entrance) & library. At EDC: in Roblin Atrium, 4th fl. PGI residence and second floor at Manitou a bi Bii daziigae. 

6. Staff desk-side recycling & trash bins: Staff are responsible for emptying their own bins into hallway recycling bins. Email the Recycling Team if you need a desk-side bin.  

7. Staff office clean/move-outs: Email the Recycling Team for pickups, or to borrow clean-out bins (textbook recycling, free shelf donations, e-waste, document shredding)  

8. Confidential materials: Use the shredding console in your area. For large shred volumes, contact the Recycling Team for a temporary rolling shred cart. See Confidential Material Guidelines for more info.  

9. Office battery bins: Are located in most office spaces, email the Recycling Team for battery bin pickup. Email Safety & Health Services for damaged or industrial sized batteries. Email Sustainability if you need a battery bin.  

10. E-waste: Email Materials Management to collect any College asset (look for RRC tag and ID number). Email the Recycling Team for pickup of personal & non-asset tagged e-waste.  

Join us in celebrating Waste Reduction Week by taking steps towards a circular economy. Together, we can make a difference—one small action at a time. Let’s use this week to reflect, take action, and work towards a more sustainable future for our community!

Congratulations to Kristi Dorian, one of the deserving winners of the 2024 BRAVO Awards for Sustainability Leadership! The BRAVO Awards are the highest form of recognition for employees who put our College’s core values and leadership into action. Among these awards, the Sustainability Leadership Award celebrates those making a meaningful impact on environmental, social, or economic sustainability.

Kristi has been a part of Red River College Polytech for 15 years, and in October, 2022 stepped into the role of Recreation and Wellness Coordinator. In this position, Kristi has supported sustainability through introducing new programs and initiatives that take a holistic view of wellness. According to Kristi, this means considering the well-being of individuals, groups, and the planet. “Campus well-being is a holistic approach primarily for students, but also staff, and we want to promote connection, belonging, well-being — physical, mental, and social” says Kristi.

Here’s a closer look at the sustainability-related programs and initiatives that led to Kristi’s nomination for the BRAVO Award:

Homeowners and Renters Workshop Series: This series offered practical, hands-on workshops covering topics like plumbing, HVAC, carpentry, and electrical work. The aim is to help students and staff learn how to maintain their homes, promote energy efficiency, and reduce waste — all key principles of sustainability. The workshops have been a hit, with strong participation and great feedback. Kristi also pointed out that collaboration across College departments was key to the program’s success, most significantly a partnership with the School of Skilled Trades and Transportation.

Enhancing Understanding and Appreciation of Our Ecosystem: Launched in 2023, the Kindness Month program focuses on spreading kindness in many forms — to the planet, animals, others, and oneself. Activities include presentations on topics including nature, pollinators, and nutrition. The goal is to boost social well-being and build community, which ties into the social aspect of sustainability. Krist shared that support from the School of Indigenous Education was key to the series’ success: “For the kindness to the planet theme, I approached the School of Indigenous Education, and Elder Paul led a presentation about the sun and Mother Earth, sharing traditions, stories, and learning from an Indigenous perspective.”

Promoting Outdoor Recreation: These programs encourage outdoor, nature-based activities that boost health, well-being, and conservation awareness. The bike share program allows students and staff to borrow bikes for errands or leisure. Snowshoes have also been added to the lending library, giving folks more options for outdoor winter activities. Organized group trips to Birds Hill Park offer nature walks, promote physical activity, and reduce the need for personal vehicles.

Notre Dame Campus Community Garden: A collaborative effort between the Grounds Department, Student Association, and Campus Well-being, this initiative allows students and staff to garden their own plots, fostering a connection to nature and food security. As Kristi puts it, “Seeing how people’s plants are growing, even with the abundance of weeds this year, I encourage everyone to get their hands dirty, plant something, watch it grow, and experience the fulfillment of harvesting your own food. It’s a huge sustainability activity.”

When asked what inspired her to bring sustainability into her work and programs, Kristi reflected, “I’m more inspired now, and my future planning has sustainability more at the forefront of my thinking as a result of receiving this award and having my manager nominate me for it. Before, the inspiration was more natural, but now it’s much more intentional.” Looking ahead, Kristi is focused on integrating sustainability into all aspects of her future programming. She sees it as a challenge to help others recognize how their activities impact the environment, social connections, and the economic aspects of sustainability.

If you’re a staff member and reading about Kristi’s work has you thinking about the links between your own role and sustainability, or if you know someone who should be nominated for next year’s Sustainability Leadership BRAVO Awards, please reach out! We’re always interested in connecting with staff and faculty across the College on sustainability issues.

Thank you very much Kristi for your contributions to sustainability at RRC Polytech!

As the summer sun starts to warm the city, it’s the perfect time to think about how we get around. Why not make your commute a bit more exciting and eco-friendly? Here at RRC Polytech, we are excited to invite you to participate in three fantastic events this June: The Commuter Challenge, Bike to Work Day and Bike Week Winnipeg. Participating is a great opportunity to embrace active and sustainable transportation, enjoy some friendly competition, and have fun along the way! 

Why participate?  

There are several compelling reasons to participate in these events and to adopt a sustainable mode of transportation:

• Environmental Impact: Transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Manitoba, contributing to climate change and air pollution. By choosing sustainable modes of transportation, we can reduce our environmental footprint. 
• Health Benefits: Less than half of Manitobans get enough physical activity. Opting for sustainable transportation allows people to incorporate exercise into their daily routines, promoting better health. 
• Financial Considerations: Owning and operating a vehicle can be expensive, costing on average between $8,500 and $11,500 annually. Choosing alternative transportation methods can lead to significant savings.
• You could win great prizes! 

Commuter Challenge: June 2nd – 8th

The Commuter Challenge is a friendly competition between workplaces across the country, encouraging everyone to choose active and sustainable transportation. In Manitoba, Green Action Centre is the organization in charge of coordinating the Commuter Challenge in our province. RRC Polytech is participating in this competition as part of our commitment to sustainability and the well-being of our staff and students. We encourage you to register under the RRC Polytech team and count your kilometres traveled using sustainable transportation which will enter you for the prizes that Green Action Centre and RRC Polytech are giving away:

• Gold Grand Prize: Annual bus pass sponsored by Winnipeg Transit + two day passes sponsored by the WAG-Qaumajug. 
• Silver Grand Prize: Two any-day vouchers sponsored by Winnipeg Folk Fest + two day passes sponsored by the WAG-Qaumajug. 
• One $100 gift certificate to Janes’ Restaurant and two $50 Jane’s gift certificates for RRC Polytech participants only.
• And many more prizes! Click here to see them all. 

How to Participate:  

Register here to be part of the RRC Polytech Team and count your kilometres traveled via a sustainable transportation method for all activities you do during the week. All modes of sustainable transportation qualify, including walking, running, wheeling, cycling, skating, public transportation, carpooling, or telecommuting.  The more kilometres you register, the more chances you have to win prizes. 

Bike Week Winnipeg: June 9th to 15th

Bike Week Winnipeg is an inclusive event for everyone who likes to ride, whether for recreation, fitness, transportation, sport, or simply for fun. This week is packed with group rides, workshops, events, and more, making it a perfect time to get out and enjoy everything that biking has to offer. 

Bike to Work Day – June 11th

One of the highlights of Bike Week is Bike to Work Day. On June 11th, come visit us at our pit stop from 6:30 AM to 9:00 AM at the train bridge at Omand’s Creek. Here’s what you can look forward to: 

• Free Coffee and Snacks: Start your day right with some complimentary refreshments. 
• Quick Bike Tune-Up: Get your bike checked and ready to ride. 
• Meet Other Cyclists: Connect with fellow RRC Polytech cyclists and share your biking stories and tips. 

This is a great opportunity to integrate cycling into your daily routine, discover new routes, and maybe even inspire a friend or coworker to join you. Plus, the sense of community and shared enthusiasm at these events is truly motivating. 

Click here to learn more about Bike Week Winnipeg  

We look forward to seeing you out there!

Wednesday, May 22^nd, is International Day for Biodiversity, commemorating the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity which Canada has been a member of since 1992. This day is a call to action for all stakeholders to halt and reverse the loss of biodiversity.   

What is biodiversity? 

Biodiversity is the variation among living organisms from all sources, including terrestrial, marine and other aquatic ecosystems; This includes within-species, between-species and ecosystem diversity. In other words, biodiversity refers to all living things, microorganisms, bacteria, plants, fungi, and animals, including humans. 

Why is biodiversity so important? 

Biodiversity supports healthy ecosystems which includes humans. Humans are in relationship with all aspects of the living world, and we depend upon healthy ecosystems for our food, freshwater, clean air, medicines and more. However, much of the Earth’s biodiversity is at risk due to overconsumption and the misuse of natural resources that have altered healthy ecosystems.

Pollution, climate change and habitat loss are threats that have caused a sharp increase in the rate of species extinction, resulting in a worldwide biodiversity crisis. Some scientists estimate that half of all species could face extinction by the end of this century. 

Biodiversity Conservation Actions  

One action RRC Polytech is taking to address biodiversity loss is to increase the use of native plants in our landscaping. Native plants are adapted to local environmental conditions, making them better suited to thrive. By using native species, we can create landscapes that require less maintenance, conserve water, and contribute to the overall health and stability of the ecosystem. An example of this is the ‘bioswale’ in front of the Skilled Trades and Technology Centre building. A bioswale is green infrastructure that mimics natural features once common in the prairie landscape. Bioswales provide many benefits including reduced need for mowing and irrigation, stormwater management, and increased habitat for native pollinators and wildlife. Many of the species found in the bioswale are tall grass prairie species, one of the most endangered ecosystems on the planet. While some fragments of tall grass prairie can be found in Manitoba, only 1% of original tall grass prairie remains in the world.

What can we do? 

One thing many people can do to support biodiversity is to introduce more native plants to their home garden. By enhancing and restoring the natural elements of your garden, you will make the urban landscape more friendly to wildlife such as birds and pollinators. For more tips and ideas on where to start, visit the Nature Conservancy of Canada’s website, Native Gardening 101. 

If you are interested in learning more about biodiversity and the tall grass prairie, you can also visit Winnipeg’s Living Prairie Museum at 2795 Ness Avenue. The Living Prairie Museum is a 30-hectare urban nature reserve that preserves tall grass prairie and promotes awareness and conservation of natural areas through environmental education. Visit their website for information on walking trails, hours, upcoming workshops, and spring native plant sale dates.