Fleming College

Peterborough, ON (March 7, 2016) – – Ottawa is being urged to use its March 22 budget to tackle climate change through investments in construction projects at colleges that will make buildings more energy efficient.

“This is an historic opportunity to transform our campuses as we work to reverse climate change,” said Fleming College President Tony Tilly. “We can create a new generation of buildings at our colleges that produce as well as consume energy, and help people acquire the necessary skills to improve energy efficiency across the economy.”

Investments in retrofits and repairs of older buildings will result in less energy consumed. New funding will also allow colleges to upgrade facilities that are specifically customized to train people pursuing clean-economy careers.

College campuses should be a priority as Ottawa looks to invest in infrastructure renewal. Many college buildings in Ontario are old and need significant upgrades, with a deferred maintenance backlog province-wide of more than $1 billion.

These investments would build on the leading role that colleges have played in the shift to a sustainable future.

Ontario’s colleges promote sustainability within the physical structure of the campuses and in programs that prepare graduates for the sustainable economy. College graduates find rewarding careers in fields that include renewable energy, green architecture, and wastewater treatment.

Fleming has made significant progress in embedding sustainability in its overall curriculum – 87% of diploma programs incorporate a sustainability learning outcome –  and in implementing its Five Year Sustainability Plan which sets out clear and measurable targets in the areas of water, energy, transport, curriculum, engagement, and achieving a STARS Silver rating.

“Creating a culture of sustainability is a core value at our college,” said Tony Tilly. “We encourage the federal government to help us promote greater efficiency in our buildings.”

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Media, for more information please contact:
Leigh McEachran
Communications Officer
leigh.mceachran@flemingcollege.ca
705.749.5530 x 1105