Become a Resident

Green Initiatives

St. Paul’s, winner of the 2008 inter-university Residence Reduction Challenge, is committed to thinking green in all aspects of our programs, academics and facilities.  Here is a growing list of initiatives we have put in place to reduce our carbon footprint.

Food Service

Water Conservation

  • Use of a waterless urinal that saves an average of 151,000 liters of fresh, potable water each year
  • Use of low flow shower heads
  • Low flow spray nozzle in our food service area

Energy Reduction

  • Implementation of a light audit which resulted in a significant reduction in required light bulbs in light fixtures.
  • Implementation of CFL bulbs where possible
  • Use of timers and motion sensors for lighting hallways washrooms and public areas
  • Implementation of L.E.D. bulbs for emergency exit signs
  • Provide and serve certified fair trade coffee

Responsible Waste Management

  • Contract with a certified snow removal company that practices the Region of Waterloo’s “Smart About Salt” program to ensure responsible use of road salt during the winter months
  • Implementation of a recycling and proper disposal program for all consumable products such as paper, cardboard, containers, light bulbs, batteries and printer cartridges
  • Use of recycled and refilled ink cartridges for our printers
  • Use of 30% recycled content paper in all our printing and photocopying
  • Eliminated the sale and use of bottled water by St. Paul’s
  • Drinking fountain available reducing the need for one time use water bottles by residents
  • Recycling of used cooking oil by an approved organic waste recycling facility
  • Composting food waste in Watson's Eatery