Fostering Community through Sustainability

In October 2024, as a part of the Laurier International Experience program, Brittany, Development Officer, travelled to Ireland, visiting three post-secondary institutions. One of the goals of her travels were to learn more about how each campus uniquely works toward their sustainability goals and inspires their campus community to be a part of the solution. 

The campus that prompted the most reflection was University College Cork. Located in Cork, Ireland, the campus is proud that sustainability isn’t a trend for UCC; it’s a longstanding value rooted in its history; from leaders to student advocacy dating back to the first universities president, a renewable energy researcher. 

In 2010, UCC became the first university in the world to earn a Green Flag and in 2024, the first university in the world to earn five Green Flags. UCC is a leader in sustainability practices in higher education and their commitment to their sustainability goals is evident in every area of the campus. 

One of University College Cork’s notable achievements is that they have eliminated all single use plastics as of 2023. The campus now provides recyclable coffee cups, water bottles, and food containers, along with cleaning stations and return programs. The campuses initiative to eliminate single use plastic is not only impressive and supportive for the healing of our planet but also has a positive impact in the community culture felt on campus. 

With the elimination of single use plastic, it felt that slowing down to enjoy a meal or coffee with a friend was encouraged. Although students, faculty and staff had the opportunity to wash their travel mug at each campus cafe, it felt as though more members of their community would opt to refill their drink into a provided ceramic mug and sit to discuss the lecture they had come from or upcoming test.  

In dedicated staff rooms, in addition to dishware being provided, there is a rule that phones and laptops are not allowed in these spaces. Each dining area had an energetic feeling as pairs and small groups gathered for their meetings, while many others would stop by to say hello. With a campus of over 24,000+ students and 3,500+ staff, it felt as though everyone knew one another and knew one another well.  

Witnessing and taking part in meetings in these spaces made me think about the connection that was being fostered because of the lack of disposable food items. Conversations felt intentional, focused and connected. Although I’m sure that the drive for eliminating single use plastic on campus was not to foster community, it did feel as though the community was stronger because of it. As I return to Laurier with new ideas and fresh perspectives, I’m reminded of my reflections about the connection between community and sustainability and continue to push myself to opt for sustainable options in support of my personal connections with co-workers and the the health of the planet.