Défi Climat: every action counts

Dear members of the McGill community,

As you know, the issue of sustainability is at the forefront of public concern. We as a community have an obligation to do our best to work towards the goal of achieving a fully sustainable institution. In addition to previous work on major University projects such as the University Physical Master Plan, recent developments in this area include the launch of the University’s Sustainability Office and the drafting of a Sustainability Policy and Action Plan. However, development of a culture of sustainability will require important efforts on the part of all of us - both as individuals and groups.

We ask that you consider collaborating in this important initiative by participating in the 3rd annual edition of Défi Climat*. In participating, you will be able to commit yourself to taking simple steps toward improving the sustainability of our community.

In addition, we strongly encourage you to submit your proposals for dynamic, innovative sustainability projects to the Sustainability Projects Fund. This new fund, established last semester by McGill students and administration, has $800,000 available for spending in 2010. The fund is expected to enhance a culture of sustainability at McGill, and to encourage broader involvement in sustainable practices and initiatives.

Thanks for your help and your contribution toward making McGill University a model of sustainability.

- Your McGill Office of Sustainability team

About Défi Climat

Défi Climat was an initiative launched in 2008 with the collaboration of the Conseil régional de l’environnement de Montréal (CRE-Montréal), the Conférence régionale des élus de Montréal (CRÉ de Montréal) and Équiterre, the City of Montreal and its partners.

• Défi Climat 2009
  290 partner organizations
  340 000 people reached by their place of work or study
  36 597 participating citizens, who committed to a total of 178 000 actions
  Estimated reduction of approximately 60 000 tons of greenhouse gases, the equivalent of taking more than 16 000 vehicles out of circulation annually.
• Défi Climat 2008
  132 partner organizations
  110 000 people reached by their place of work or study
  25 000 participating citizens, who committed to a total of 100 000 actions
  Estimated reduction of approximately 26,000 tons of greenhouse gases, the equivalent of taking more than 6,350 vehicles out of circulation annually.

Please note that Défi Climat collects personal information. See for instructions on how to opt out.