VIU releases position statement on climate action and sustainability

The University has also signed on to the Sustainable Development Goals Accord.

Vancouver Island University (VIU) has released a position statement on climate action and sustainability to recognize that universities have an essential role in taking meaningful action to address climate action and sustainability. In support of its position, VIU has also signed on to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Accord.

These two actions provide a clear framework for VIU to deepen its efforts in fighting the climate crisis and articulate the commitments that will enable the VIU community to create positive, lasting change. 

At VIU, our people, knowledge and resources can provide models and contribute to solutions that positively impact our institution, region and beyond. We agree that:

• Climate change is happening,
• Climate change poses an existential threat to life on this planet,
• Climate change creates uncertainty and anxiety,
• Climate change is human-caused,
• Urgent action is needed, and
• All learning institutions play a critical role in creating a more sustainable future.

“The catastrophic effects of human-caused climate change are all around us, which is why the first task for the President’s Taskforce on Climate Action and Sustainability was to develop a clear position statement on the climate crisis,” said Dr. Deborah Saucier, VIU President and Vice-Chancellor. “We only need to listen to the stories of our Elders to learn what has been lost. Our position statement will be the foundation for leadership as a university to help mitigate this crisis.”

The position statement and SDG Accord signing were guided by VIU’s Strategic Plan, People, Place, Potential, which states that supporting the SDGs is one key consideration woven throughout all that VIU does.

“The United Nations’ SDGs are an important global concept that describes a way forward for a healthier planet for all its living creatures and environments. By signing the accord, VIU agrees to support these objectives and work to meet them. I encourage our community to take action to support the SDGs in their personal lives,” said President Saucier.

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Media Contact:

Jenn McGarrigle, External Communications Manager, Vancouver Island University

C: 250.619.6860 l E: Jenn.McGarrigle@viu.ca | T: @VIUNews