From increasing disasters, wildfires, record-breaking rainfall, warming lakes, invasive species and a struggling circular economy, York researchers are taking the measure of our planet

TORONTO, April 20, 2026 – As the climate changes and the risk of wildfires, earth quakes, floods and landslides increase, this Earth Day 2026 (April 22) is about taking back power – . �첥��Ƶ experts research how environmental and climate stressors are affecting our planet’s ecosystems and how that affects humans and wildlife.

The following experts are available:

, a York Research Chair in Global Change Biology, is a professor in the Faculty of Science. Her research focuses on the impacts of human-caused environmental stressors, including the effects of climate change and invasive species on freshwater lakes.

She can comment on:

• How human-induced environmental stressors increase lake temperatures, disrupt delicate ecosystems, and can affect fish species, lake health, cyanobacteria growth and drinking water
• Effects of freshwater browning, from an increase of organic matter and carbon being washed into lakes, on fish growth, populations and species
• Impact of climate change on Arctic ice conditions
• Invasive species, water quality and freshwater fisheries

, associate professor of atmospheric science at the Lassonde School of Engineering, studies climate, atmospheric, ocean and sea ice dynamics. He uses a combination of models, observations, and mathematical analysis to investigate how motions in Earth’s atmosphere and ocean influence climate.  He can speak to:

• Processes driving long-term temperature and precipitation changes, including increasingly record-breaking rainfall
• Factors leading to changes in Arctic sea ice
• Variability of the ocean circulation and its relationship to other aspects of climate change

,  director of York’s Emergency Mitigation, Engagement, Governance, Response Institute (Y-EMERGE), is an associate professor in the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies and an expert in disaster and emergency management areas, specifically wildfire and forest fire management. He has done extensive work on wildfire mitigation, fire decision-making, use of prediction in fire management, and fire management in Canada and globally. He can discuss:

• How climate changes - and other changes - increase the threat, intensity, and impact of wildfires
• How wildfires are managed in Canada and globally
• Wildfire decision-making, like how agencies make response decisions and how community members decide
• How to mitigate wildfire risk for individuals and communities

and , both professor and atmospheric chemists in the Faculty of Science who have been part of several large campaigns to better understand the air we breath in Toronto and across North America in summer and winter. Their most recent research found that the tinniest forever chemical declined in Toronto after everyone went home during the pandemic which means scientists should be able to figure out how to minimize these particular emissions and control the formation of it in the future. They can discuss:

• What is in the air Torontonians breath and what is contributing to it
• How so many per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances��(PFAS) remain undetected in the atmosphere and how they figured out how to test for them
• How these forever chemicals developed in the first place
• The risk to the environment, humans and wildlife of PFAS and how far they travel

Calvin Lakhan is co-investigator of the Circular Innovation Hub, a research project devoted to advancing the understanding of waste management research and policy in Canada, in the Faculty of Environmental Studies and Urban Change. He can discuss:

• The grey area of going green and the dangers of green washing and misleading environmental claims
• The circular economy and the adoption or resistance to it, such as reusable and zero-waste systems and consumer reaction to shared reusable food and beverage containers
• How recycling policy and environmental outcomes may be doing more harm than good and is no longer sustainable
• The socio-economic inequality that prevents poor and marginalized groups from participating in sustainable waste management practices

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TORONTO, Nov. 18, 2025 – �첥��Ƶ continues to be a leader in sustainability, scoring in the top six per cent of universities internationally and in the top three per cent across Canada in the latest QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2026.

York jumped one spot in Canada out of 41 universities and is in the top 100 for social impact and top 101 for governance, 26th for equality.

The University held steady despite the number of competitor institutions in this year’s rankings increasing by almost 300 internationally and by nine in Canada.

“�첥��Ƶ has a long-standing commitment to sustainability that is woven into the fabric of our institution, our academic programs, and research priorities. Being recognized in the top six per cent of universities worldwide and the top three per cent in Canada in this ranking reflects the collective efforts of our entire community. We are especially proud to rank fourth in Canada for equality and to be among the top 15 for environmental impact, social impact, and governance,” said Rhonda Lenton, president and vice-chancellor of York.

“Sustainability is a core value of the University that has been incorporated into our vision to drive positive change for people and the planet including innovative projects on renaturalization, Indigenous plant species and pollinator habitats. York remains steadfast in our mission to build a more equitable and sustainable future for all.”

In Canada, York ranks in fourth place for equality and in the top 15 for environmental impact, social impact and governance.

The QS Sustainability Ranking encompasses measures of environmental impact, including environmental sustainability, environmental education and environmental research, and highlights universities around the globe that not only demonstrate a commitment to a better planet, but are acting on that commitment.

Earlier this year, the University scored 15 subject areas in the top 10 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025. It also moved up 29 spots globally in the 2026 QS World University Rankings.

In addition, York earned a top 40 spot in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings results, demonstrating its leadership in achieving high results in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

For the second consecutive time, the University was recognized with a Living Campus certification by the World Wildlife Fund, further highlighting its commitment to sustainability across all of its campuses. York continues to support renaturalization and ecological regeneration plans focusing on Indigenous plant species, creating pollinator habitats and planting more than 578 native plants and 238 native trees across the Keele and Glendon campuses.

For more than a decade, York has been named as one of Canada’s Greenest Employers and for the second consecutive year it also made the list for Canada’s Best Diversity Employers.

York has been an international leader in sustainability since its earliest days. In 1968, it established the country’s first Faculty of Environmental Studies, now the , along with the first major post-secondary recycling program.

In 2024, the University launched its newly revised Sustainability Strategy 2030, Positive Change: Connecting People, Planet and Purpose with a goal to reduce its direct and indirect emissions and phase out carbon emissions. It also developed a Sustainability Toolkit to help bring teaching and learning about the 17 SDGs into classrooms and a Well-being Strategy to address the health and well-being of its communities across all campuses.

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York places first for Quality Education and second for Gender Equality, Reduced Inequities and Responsible Consumption and Production in Canada

TORONTO, June 18, 2025 – In today’s Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings results, �첥��Ƶ continues to lead in the world’s top Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), holding firm with a top 40 spot overall and jumping hundreds of spots in SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being. The significant new global ranking comes alongside York’s deepening academic strength in health studies, and as the University’s new School of Medicine takes shape.

York holds strong at 38th out of 2,318 institutions worldwide, and 7th in Canada, despite more than 350 additional institutions participating this year. The THE Impact Rankings highlight how the University is making significant changes not only on its three main Greater Toronto Area campuses and in surrounding local communities, but also on the global stage.

“York has once again been recognized as a leader by Times Higher Education’s Impact Ranking for advancing the SDGs,” said Rhonda Lenton, �첥��Ƶ president and vice-chancellor. “I’m particularly proud to see the major jump we have made in SDG 3: Good Health and Wellbeing. This aligns with our focus on advancing health in our own communities and those we serve. The recent approval of York’s School of Medicine is a testament to this commitment and to our dedication to ensure that all families have access to equitable health care here in Ontario. My warmest thanks and congratulations to everyone who advances the SDGs every day here at York, and beyond.”

In Canada, York is number one for SDG 4: Quality education, and second for SDG 5: Gender equality, SDG 10: Reduced inequities and SDG 12: Responsible consumption and production. The University scored in the top 10 across the country for 12 out of 17 SDGs.

Sustainability is an important pillar at �첥��Ƶ. Its renewed Sustainability Strategy articulates a bold vision for achieving climate targets and environmentally sound practices while its Academic Plan embeds SDGs directly into research, teaching and partnerships.

As part of THE Impact Rankings, the University did particularly well in social justice and action SDGs, including SDGs 1: No poverty; 3: Good health and well-being; 10: Reduced inequalities; 12: Responsible consumption and production; 16: Peace, justice and strong institutions; 9: Industry, innovation and infrastructure; and 17: Partnership for the goals.

York is supporting good health and well-being by opening a new School of Medicine to help address the urgent need for more primary care physicians in Ontario. In addition, York is one of only four post-secondary institutions in the province to receive new funding from the Ontario government to launch of an accelerated registered nursing degree program to help get nurses into the workforce sooner.

In addition, as academic lead of the  and through its new Organized Research Unit, OneWATER, the University is helping to develop equitable and integrated solutions to water issues facing many communities worldwide. The UNITAR Global Water Academy and �첥��Ƶ recently announced the launch of three, free online courses: , , and .

York was recently named the United Nations Academic Impact (UNAI) Hub Chair for SDG 10 out of 1,700-plus UNAI members in recognition of its commitment to addressing systemic inequality, discrimination and exclusion across the University’s operations, teaching, research and outreach.

York is working to reduce inequality through its support of Indigenous research, the Centre for Refugee Studies, and through the .

The University has international partners in Costa Rica, Ghana and the Philippines ready to work with York Emergency Mitigation, Engagement, Response and Governance Institute (Y-MERGE), York’s Las Nubes campus in Costa Rica, the Centre for Refugee Studies, the and the Dahdaleh Institute for Global Health Research.

The University also helps address poverty and inequality through initiatives such as the Canadian Observatory on Homelessness . In addition, 's Parkdale Community Legal Services program and Community Legal Aid Services provide legal assistance to lower income Toronto area residents.

The University’s values of social justice, progressiveness, inclusivity, sustainability and excellence are infused into its Decolonizing, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy, Framework and Action Plan on Black Inclusion, and the , including the establishment of a dedicated Indigenous Research Ethics Board at York – the first for a post-secondary institution in Canada. 

With more than 350 global partnerships in 60 plus countries, it’s no wonder York jumped 11 spots in SDG 16: Peace, justice and strong institutions. Most recently the University signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority. Both institutions have strong foundations in research and knowledge mobilization that helps protect the environment and support their surrounding communities.

In support of industry, innovation and infrastructure and sustainable cities and communities, York continues to promote and support innovation and entrepreneurship, fintech and AI in York Region where it recently opened its new Markham Campus.

Through its Disaster and Emergency Management program, York’s new state-of-the-art Victor Phillip Dahdaleh Advanced Disaster, Emergency and Rapid Response Simulation (ADERSIM) Lab and Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), and its Understanding and Improving Wildfire Mitigation Partnerships with Local Governments project,the University is helping to increase the sustainability cities and communities. The EOC can manage, coordinate and act as a hub to support large-scale emergency operations and evaluate rapid emergence response strategies across Canada and around the world. The ADERSIM Lab will develop emergency management tools and technologies, train students and industry partners, while the wildfire project will allow the University and its partners to evaluate the issues local governments face in adopting wildfire mitigation practices and determine how to scale up their mitigation efforts.

Further highlighting York’s work in diversity and sustainability across its multiple campuses, the University was once again named one of Canada’s Greenest Employers in 2025 for the 13th consecutive year and one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers 2025. York also continues to have a strong global position in the , one of the top 400 worldwide. 

Learn more about how the York community is creating positive change by advancing sustainable development.

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Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) and �첥��Ƶ execute a Memorandum of Understanding to set the stage for future collaboration ��

TORONTO, April 28, 2025 – Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) and �첥��Ƶ are proud to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two organizations to formalize their long-standing relationship. The MOU highlights potential areas of collaboration and lays out a process for working together on specific projects and initiatives.

The MOU was executed in a signing ceremony on April 25 that included �첥��Ƶ President and Vice-Chancellor, Rhonda Lenton, TRCA Chair and City of Toronto Councillor, Paul Ainslie, and the Chief Executive Officer of TRCA, John MacKenzie. The signing ceremony took place during the official opening of TRCA’s new, environmentally sustainable administrative office building at 5 Shoreham Drive, Toronto, which marks TRCA’s return to the �첥��Ƶ neighbourhood.

“TRCA is thrilled to enter this MOU with our neighbour, �첥��Ƶ. We already have a history of productive collaboration together, but this MOU formalizes our important relationship. The partnership between TRCA and �첥��Ƶ brings forward our complementary strengths as researchers, educators, employers, and facility owners and managers, and together we can benefit our surrounding community, region, and country for years to come," says John MacKenzie, chief executive officer, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority.

Both �첥��Ƶ and TRCA have strong foundations in research and mobilizing knowledge to help protect the environment and support their surrounding communities. The MOU will facilitate projects that leverage both organizations’ expertise and could include initiatives such as: research collaborations on ecology and biodiversity, water resources, and climate change; student engagement, training and career development; community and stakeholder engagement; knowledge mobilization; utilizing TRCA or �첥��Ƶ sites for research or programming; and corporate and facility sustainability. 

“Championing sustainability is a collective effort, and we are proud to partner with TRCA to create new research and learning opportunities for our researchers, faculty, and students while addressing the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. With our shared commitment to excellence and community engagement, this new MOU exemplifies the kind of collaboration we need to ensure the health and well-being of both people and the planet,” says Rhonda Lenton, president and vice-chancellor, �첥��Ƶ.

About Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA)

Since 1957, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), as enabled through the provincial Conservation Authorities Act, has taken action to enhance our region’s natural environment and protect our land, water, and communities from the impacts of flooding and increasingly extreme weather events – Ontario’s leading cause of public emergencies. 

As the region’s first line of defence against natural hazards, TRCA maintains vital infrastructure and provides programs and services that promote public health and safety, protecting people and property. TRCA mobilizes a science-based approach to provide sound policy advice, leveraging its position as a not-for-profit operating in the broader public sector to achieve collective impacts within our communities and across all levels of government. 

TRCA’s dedication to its employees and sustainability has earned it recognition as both one of and one of . These distinctions highlight TRCA’s commitment to fostering a supportive, innovative, and environmentally responsible workplace – dedicated to driving meaningful change and create lasting positive impacts in the communities it serves.

TRCA’s jurisdiction includes nine watersheds and their Lake Ontario shorelines, spanning six upper-tier and fifteen lower-tier municipalities and representing almost five million people, approximately 10% of Canada’s population. 

To learn more about TRCA, visit . 

About �첥��Ƶ

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��10th annual conference at York – a leader in Canada’s fair trade having recently achieved Fair Trade Campus silver status – will encourage businesses to lead the future of ethical trade

TORONTO, Feb. 12, 2025 – The 10th , hosted by Fairtrade Canada, will convene business leaders, advocates, and changemakers at �첥��Ƶ from Feb. 14 to 15.

The event will explore how Canadian businesses are at the forefront of fair-trade innovation, strengthening ethical supply chains, and responding to the growing demand for sustainable products both at home and globally.

With the theme Better Business, Brighter Future, a lineup of sessions and speakers will highlight the intersection of ethics and profitability.

"Fairness, integrity, and community are at the heart of how we do business in Canada,” says Julie Francoeur, CEO of Fairtrade Canada. “Companies across the country are proving that ethical trade isn’t just a choice – it’s a responsibility. This conference is about celebrating that leadership and giving businesses the tools to keep driving change at home and around the world."

Key discussions will focus on how Canadian companies can leverage fair trade to enhance their global competitiveness, build consumer trust, and drive long-term success. Attendees will gain insights on integrating sustainability into business strategy, the role of fair trade in addressing social and environmental challenges, and the opportunity for industries to lead in creating a more equitable global economy.

“At York, we bring sustainability to life by fostering impactful individual, community, academic and institutional practices that contribute to a brighter future for both people and the planet,” says Rhonda Lenton, �첥��Ƶ president and vice-chancellor. “As a designated Fair-Trade Campus and one of Canada’s Greenest Employers, I am delighted that York was chosen to host the 10th National Fair-Trade Conference in partnership with Fairtrade Canada. Together, I am confident that we can raise awareness and mobilize action around sustainability and fair trade in ways that have a lasting positive impact.”

Welcome addresses will take place on Friday, Feb. 14 at 5:30 p.m. with David Peters, �첥��Ƶ interim provost and vice-president academic; Olivia Chow, City of Toronto mayor; Sandra Sturgess, vice-president of strategic accounts and partnerships, Chartwells, Compass Group, and emceed by Julie Francoeur, CEO Fairtrade Canada.

Panels will include speakers from across Canada’s business community, including Jennie Coleman, president of Equifruit; Roxanne Joyal, founder and CEO of &BACK COFFEE; Taylor Stanley, corporate impact strategy manager at Riverside Natural Foods; Adam Pesce, president of Reunion Coffee Roasters; Mark Marsolais-Nahwegahbow, founder of Birch Bark Coffee Co.; Alissa Ward, sustainability & CSR associate at Tentree; and many more.

The conference will also host a Youth Round Table, led by Ana Laura Sayago, a honey producer from the COOPSOL cooperative and a youth representative on the Board of Fairtrade’s regional producer network in Latin America and the Caribbean (CLAC). Sayago will provide a unique lens on how the next generation is shaping the future of fair trade.

Strengthening Canada’s Ethical Economy

This conference is more than just an industry gathering – it’s an opportunity to strengthen Canada’s leadership in responsible business practices. As Canadian companies face increasing expectations for transparency and sustainability, fair trade offers a proven model to build stronger, more ethical supply chains. The event will provide practical tools, success stories, and strategic insights to help businesses navigate evolving market demands while reinforcing Canada’s reputation as a leader in sustainable trade.

WHAT: 10th National Fair-Trade Conference

WHEN: Feb. 14 to 15

WHERE: �첥��Ƶ Keele Campus

SPEAKERS:

SCHEDULE:

Registration:

About Fairtrade Canada
Fairtrade Canada is the Canadian chapter of Fairtrade International, the global leader in fair trade standards with more than three decades of experience working for more equitable trading practices in over 100 countries.��

About �첥��Ƶ
�첥��Ƶ��is a modern, multi-campus, urban university located in Toronto, Ontario. Backed by a diverse group of students, faculty, staff, alumni and partners, we bring a uniquely global perspective to help solve societal challenges, drive positive change and prepare our students for success. York's fully bilingual Glendon Campus is home to Southern Ontario's Centre of Excellence for French Language and Bilingual Postsecondary Education. York’s campuses in Costa Rica and India offer students exceptional transnational learning opportunities and innovative programs. Together, we can make things right for our communities, our planet, and our future.

Media Contacts:

Sandra McLean, �첥��Ƶ Media Relations, 416-272-6317, sandramc@yorku.ca

Fairtrade Canada: media@fairtrade.ca

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As the world heats up, creating extreme weather havoc, the University is on track to reach the 2030 Paris Agreement 45 per cent emissions reduction target years earlier

Many scientists now believe global temperatures are on track to surpass 1.5C and are likely to reach 2.5C, or greater, above pre-industrial levels. At the same time, reports peg many corporations as quietly quitting their reduced carbon commitments. �첥��Ƶ, on the other hand, stands out as a beacon to a more sustainable future.

The University continues to advance sustainability through teaching, research, more efficient campus operations and community involvement, locally and beyond, toward a better, greener world in line with its motto “Tentanda via – the way must be tried”.

Launched today, its newly revised Sustainability Strategy 2030, Positive Change: Connecting People, Planet and Purpose outlines what steps York will take towards meeting its sustainability goals. Its new sustainability objectives will propel York forward on a path to becoming one of the most sustainable institutions in Canada.

“As a global community, we are at an inflection point for the climate crisis. While the Earth’s climate system continues to worsen, there is still time to change course, and is up to us all to take action,” says Rhonda Lenton, �첥��Ƶ president and vice-chancellor. “With this new strategy, developed through consultations with the York community, we will escalate our efforts to combat the climate crisis through a whole-of-university approach that includes teaching, research, partnership, and operational activities across our local and global campuses. Together, we can realize a more sustainable future for ourselves and for our planet.”

As a living document, the strategy will guide York’s bolstered commitment while answering a call to action towards sustainability. One of its top goals after hitting its 2030 target, potentially years earlier than expected, is to plan to phase out carbon emissions to achieve net zero by 2040 for scope one and two emissions and develop targets for scope three emissions. York will work to design all new buildings, and any major renovations, to net zero with an aim to make them net positive. In working towards also becoming a zero-waste institution, goals include reducing water use on campus, protecting watersheds while optimizing stormwater repurposing, mitigating the ecological impact of food eaten on campus, and regenerating local ecosystems.

It all starts with the will to do more and the plans to carry it out, while striving to make a difference locally and globally. That includes plans to maximize building use, the heating and cooling of spaces, and a strategy to decarbonize central utilities and fleet vehicles.

“�첥��Ƶ has a history of leading on sustainability in our teaching, research, and operations,” says Mike Layton, chief sustainability officer in York’s Office of Sustainability. “�첥��Ƶ is well positioned with a global reputation as a leader in sustainability and as a university that does more than educate and research – York trains a community of changemakers.”

The plans are already paying off. Earlier this year, the University developed a new pollinator garden at its Keele Campus, part of its re-naturalizationand ecological regenerationplans which prioritize Indigenous plants. Part of its overall plan for success is to engage not only the university community, but also the wider community in its green strategies. The new pollinator garden is an example as visitors can scan QR codes placed throughout the garden to bring pollinators to life using augmented reality.

This fall, York put its new fleet of all electric shuttle buses on the road ferrying students and faculty between campuses emissions free. There are newly installed solar panels ready to be activated and several flourishing green roofs, including at its newer Second Student Centre. In addition, the University is exploring ways to use heat from underground sewers to warm and cool its Glendon Campus.

Part of achieving the necessary action to ensure a more sustainable future is through research and education, a key to transforming societies. York sees sustainability as a core value in all its teaching and research, as well as its campus operations. Under it’s three pillars of people, knowledge and place, the University strives to be a catalyst for climate action and solutions, an incubator for sustainability leaders, a disrupter of old ways of thinking, and a lodestar for transformative approaches.

A history of sustainability long before it was fashionable

The University has a long, steady history of sustainability. In 1968, it started the first Faculty of Environmental Studies in the country, along with the first known recycling program. Since then, it has continually reduced its greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). Through improvements in 1990, it reduced its GHG emissions by about 17,000 tonnes, plus another 11,000 tonnes in 2000, and 4,000 in 2010. Altogether, in its quest to be more energy efficient and build more sustainable buildings, York has diverted some 700,000 tonnes of GHG emissions in just over two decades.

In 2015, York phased out the sale of single use plastic water bottles, installed 70 water refill stations across its Keele and Glendon campuses and retrofitted over 200 existing public water fountains. In 2020, the Office of Sustainability was launched and two years later it was announced that efforts were underway to achieve net-zero sooner.

A living document for a changing planet

The new sustainability strategy works together with other institutional documents and commitments that touch on its vision, guiding principles, strategic objectives, and actions. As a living document, measurable and interim targets will roll out as the plan is implemented. Although its focus is on the environment, how it intersects with social and economic factors is also an important component of York’s strategy.

By mobilizing students, faculty, staff, alumni and the external community, York hopes to shine a green light of hope along the path to climate action, positive change and a sustainable future for all.

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TORONTO, May 13, 2024 – Today, the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN), with support from the Ontario Government, announced $1.5 million in funding to �첥��Ƶ and in partnership with Centennial College to support small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups in developing and testing innovative automotive technologies and smart mobility solutions.

Overall, OVIN is supporting an investment of $4.77 million including the Province’s $1.5 million contribution.

“Having secured over $43 billion in new electric vehicle and EV battery manufacturing investments over the last four years, our government continues to recognize the economic potential of advanced automotive technologies,” said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “We congratulate �첥��Ƶ and Centennial College on the launch of their SmartTO RTDS, and look forward to seeing their partnership with OVIN inspire innovation across the auto and mobility sectors.”

This investment launches �첥��Ƶ’s Smart Mobility Applied Research and Testing – Toronto (SmartTO) as the newest OVIN Regional Technology Development Site (RTDS), located in the Greater Toronto Area. As part of the RTDS network, SmartTO will directly support entrepreneurs, SMEs and startups in the automotive technology and mobility sector, through access to industry-leading resources such as specialized equipment, supports for testing and piloting, business and technical advisory services, and opportunities for collaboration with regional partners.

SmartTO will enable SMEs in the province to move the dial on sustainability and work towards reducing the province’s carbon footprint by speeding up the development, testing, and commercialization of new technologies and driving developments in the field. SMEs will work with established industry partners to help advance their technological innovations and smart material development for the next generation of smarter, lighter, and more efficient electric vehicles and infrastructure. This work will ensure that the Province continues to lead in the research and innovation space for electric, connected, and autonomous vehicle technologies.

“As an internationally recognized leader in sustainability, the Sustainable Development Goals are embedded in our teaching, research, and innovation activities and are the blueprint for all our partnerships,” says Rhonda Lenton, �첥��Ƶ President and Vice-Chancellor. “With a net-zero commitment and a longstanding reputation as a living lab where cutting-edge solutions are tested and refined, we are dedicated to expanding our positive impact through collaborative projects such as this one. This funding from the Ontario government will enable York, along with our partners, to expand support for SMEs across the province as part of the RTDS network towards realizing a more sustainable future.”

SmartTO will operate in partnership with Centennial College’s School of Transportation, Canada’s largest transportation training facility, leveraging the power of research expertise, engineering, and unrivalled access to state-of-the-art equipment, cutting-edge labs, vehicles, facilities, and expert technicians. SmartTO will also utilize resources from �첥��Ƶ’s Office of the Vice-President Research & Innovation, Lassonde School of Engineering, and YSpace, a pan-university entrepreneurship and innovation hub, to support startups and SMEs in the GTA on their journey from technology development to commercialization. 

“Centennial College is looking forward to working with �첥��Ƶ and the Ontario government through OVIN to build Ontario's strength in connected, autonomous, SMART and electrified vehicles – presenting a unique opportunity not only to train our future workforce in these emerging technologies but also to lead in their innovation,” says Dr. Craig Stephenson, president and CEO of Centennial College.

“Ontario has emerged as a global leader in the automotive and mobility sector as it transforms towards electric, connected, and autonomous vehicles,” said Raed Kadri, Head of OVIN. “Through the OVIN Regional Technology Development Sites, we are harnessing the strengths of our entire province, from the critical mineral wealth of Northern Ontario and to the manufacturing strength of Southern Ontario, and everywhere in between – cementing Ontario's role as the global hub for the vehicles of the future.”

Through the Province’s commitment to supporting the automotive and mobility sector, Ontario continues to reinforce its position as the global hub for automotive manufacturing, supply and technological innovation, evidenced by billions of dollars in transformational investments, particularly for EV and battery production. The creation of this new RTDS builds on this success and forms part of the Province’s 10-year plan, Driving Prosperity, which is driving economic development and a cleaner, safer and more efficient transportation future.

-30-

About �첥��Ƶ

�첥��Ƶ is a modern, multi-campus, urban university located in Toronto, Ontario. Backed by a diverse group of students, faculty, staff, alumni and partners, we bring a uniquely global perspective to help solve societal challenges, drive positive change and prepare our students for success. York's fully bilingual Glendon Campus is home to Southern Ontario's Centre of Excellence for French Language and Bilingual Postsecondary Education. York’s campuses in Costa Rica and India offer students exceptional transnational learning opportunities and innovative programs. Together, we can make things right for our communities, our planet, and our future. 

About Centennial College

, founded in 1966, is Ontario’s first public college. Anchored primarily in the eastern part of the Greater Toronto Area, the college boasts five campuses and two satellite locations. Renowned for its outstanding teaching, creative curriculum, and robust network of partnerships, Centennial annually welcomes over 40,000 full-time and part-time students from over 130 countries. These students pursue their education in over 400 diploma, certificate, and degree programs across various fields, including business, media, arts, community and consumer services, engineering technology, health care, and transportation.

About the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN)

The (OVIN) is an initiative of the Government of Ontario, led by the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI), designed to reinforce Ontario’s position as a North American leader in advanced automotive technology and smart mobility solutions such as connected vehicles, autonomous vehicles and electric and low-carbon vehicle technologies.

Through resources such as research and development (R&D) support, talent and skills development, technology acceleration, business and technical supports, and demonstration grounds, OVIN provides a competitive advantage to Ontario-made automotive and mobility technology companies.

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As part of its sustainability strategy, the University is now a designated Fair Trade Campus for its commitment to providing products that benefit workers in the Global South

TORONTO, May 8, 2024 – �첥��Ƶ is full of beans – fair trade coffee beans – excited about its new fair trade silver designation and its ability to offer sustainably produced coffee, chocolate, tea and more across its three campuses.

It takes a community. Receiving the fair trade recent designation was the result of years of dedicated collaboration between students, faculty and staff to provide more sustainable options at its campuses. The designation is a big win for those who championed and raised awareness of fair trade at York.

The University celebrated its new designation today with a pop-up event outside of Vari Hall on the Keele Campus hosted by the Office of Sustainability to further foster awareness and community while serving up free fair trade Las Nubes coffee. The event also helped the University's Office of Institutional Events achieve gold in the Sustainable Events Certification Program.

The fair trade designation is just one way York can make a global difference in the lives of others by leveraging its buying power for good. It also creates learning opportunities for students and encourages an understanding of the impact of buying choices and how they can go a long way toward sustainability.

“At �첥��Ƶ, our commitment to sustainability isn't just a strategy - it's a community-driven journey where every fair trade purchase creates ripples of positive change worldwide," says Mike Layton, chief sustainability officer. "York's achievement of becoming a Fair Trade Campus would not have been possible without the work of many across the University, including teams in Food Services, the Bookstore, professors and former students.”

Fair trade items such as bananas, various snacks, banana chocolate chip loaf, and hot chocolate round out some of the edible offerings at a variety of restaurants, food services, stores and vending machines, including fair trade Las Nubes coffee, grown near York's Las Nubes EcoCampus in Costa Rica and its 400-acre Las Nubes Biological Reserve. Students at the Faculty of Environment and Urban Change’s EcoCampus learn about and research neotropical conservation, eco-health, community well-being and sustainable livelihoods.

In addition to food, fair trade apparel is also available at the University’s Bookstore – considered the first in Canada to sell certified, fair trade clothing in a campus bookstore – in partnership with , a campus based-cooperative and sustainable products supplier founded by students and faculty at York and incorporated in 2011. It was their answer to the lack of fair trade cotton T-shirt importers in Canada or ways for students to embrace and create change. Today, there is a wide selection of fair trade T-shirts and hoodies in the �첥��Ƶ Bookstore.

This is in line with York’s decades long commitment to sustainability and support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), part of its University Academic Plan. As a Fair Trade Campus, York is helping to tackle several SDGs, including SDG 12 – responsible consumption and production, SDG 2 – zero hunger, SDG 1 – no poverty, and SDG 11 – sustainable cities and communities.

The designation comes through the of Fairtrade Canada, a volunteer-based organization. All fair trade products ensure production workers and farmers are fairly treated fairly and compensated for their work.

The Early Days

York’s championing of sustainability has a long history of faculty and student cooperation.

Professor Emeritus Darryl Reed, who does research on fair trade and encourages its education through course work and experiential education, Professor John Simoulidis, director of the Green Campus Co-op, – both of the Business and Society Program in the Faculty of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies (LAPS) – and Professor John Justin McMurtry, now the dean of LAPS, were a few of the people who pushed the initiative forward in the early days, with then student Madison Hopper, who now works for Fairtrade-certified banana importer, Equifruit. Sasa Nestorovic, bookstore director, is another big supporter and leads the acquisition of fair trade merchandise.

The initial goal was to make connections between social economy enterprises in Ontario and India, such as cotton growers, through a research project that looked at the possibilities, challenges and benefits of these types of partnerships. At that time cotton growers in India could be exposed to some 118 different pesticides.

Fair trade is something these professors, their colleagues and students, including the late York environmental studies Professor Howard Daugherty, an advocate for fair trade and the environment who was instrumentally involved in the beginnings of York’s Las Nubes Biological Reserve, have been working toward for some 15 or more years. The reserve started with a donation of mountainous cloud forest in Costa Rica donated to York by Dr. Woody Fisher in 1998.

The reserve’s primary areas of research included studying protected areas in the neotropics, natural resource policy and management, biological conservation, and sustainable development. The EcoCampus in Costa Rica provides the ideal location for research and learning.

Throughout its sustainable journey, York has included students in the process, including the annual fair trade fair on the Keele Campus designed in part to educate the University community about how their choices make a difference. Through the Green Campus Co-Op, students are also given experiential learning opportunities with the hope to spark a new generation of sustainable entrepreneurs.

York continues to follow the path of sustainability and equity.

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Living its values. For the first time, �첥��Ƶ achieves two top designations as Canada’s greenest and most diverse employer for 2024.

This is the 12th consecutive year York has made the cut for and selected by Mediacorp Canada Inc., organizers of the annual Canada’s Top 100 Employers project.

The honour recognizes employers who lead the nation in creating a culture of awareness for the environment and whose sustainability practices have become part of their public identity. It include developing unique initiatives and programs, and successfully reducing their footprint with the help of employees.

In addition, York also received award announced March 4, a first for the University, which recognizes exceptional workplace diversity and inclusiveness programs across the country. Not only has York launched a Decolonizing, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (DEDI) Strategy, but its DEDI values are infused into its Framework and Action Plan on Black Inclusion and the .

“Being recognized as Canada’s Best Diversity and Canada’s Greenest Employers is possible because of the values and dedication of York employees, staff and faculty alike,” says Laina Bay-Cheng, interim vice-president of Equity People and Culture. “I hope York and all our colleagues can take pride in how hard we work to be a place where so many different people, all taking so many different paths in their careers and lives, can thrive and feel like they belong.”

York continues to be a champion of sustainability. A year ago, the University hired its first chief sustainability office in its Office of Sustainability to focus more attention on its sustainability goals and actions. Since then, it has shortened its initial goal to reach net-zero emissions by a decade, now 2040. It also started a $1 million Sustainability Innovation Fund to provide funding to faculty, staff and students to pursue projects to advance climate action – which supports the United Nation’s (UN) Sustainable Development Goal 13) on York’s three campuses toward positive change.

“York’s collaborative and holistic approach to sustainability has played a large part in why we continue to excel in sustainability leadership. This work wouldn’t be possible without the support of students, faculty, instructors and staff,” says Mike Layton, York’s chief sustainability officer.

A University-wide challenge to elevate York’s contributions to the UN’s SDGs 17 (global partnerships for sustainable development) was also included in its University Academic Plan 2020-2025. With two TTC stops on its Keele Campus and an investment in using electric golf carts, bikes, and hybrid and electric vehicles, York has helped its community move away from single-occupant trips to more sustainable options. Its ZeroWaste program has increasingly diverted waste from landfill sites for more than three decades, reaching 70 per cent of waste diversion.

York also has an Eco-Campus dedicated to teaching and researching neotropical conservation, eco-health, community well-being and sustainable livelihoods through it's 400-acres Las Nubes Forest Reserve in Costa Rica.

York’s continued commitment to sustainability and diversity, is reflected in the 2023 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, where it ranked among the world’s top 40 universities out of more than 1,500 for advancing the SDGs. That includes being ranked 21st in the world for SDG 1 – No Poverty, 25th in the world for SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities, and 12th in the world for SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities.

As Layton says, “Community adoption of green initiatives and a continued desire to support the University in expanding its impact to create a more sustainable future is integral. This recognition is a reflection of community efforts.”

It’s a commitment that will help foster a greener, more diverse future.

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What will it take to ensure that the two billion people currently without access to clean water around the world are not left high and dry? With �첥��Ƶ as the academic lead, the UNITAR Global Water Academy @ YorkU is mobilizing the scientific community and forging collaborations to address water scarcity and lack of access.

United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) Global Water Academy (UGWA) reaches its one-year anniversary on UN World Water Day, March 22, the same day it will host a side event panel with York as part of the United Nations (UN) World Water Day in Geneva – Addressing Water for Peace: Water Governance in Conflict and Humanitarian Settings – to spark collaborations and dialogue around the theme, Leveraging Water for Peace.

Two days later on March 24, the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto will shine a light on water in Indigenous and Muslim traditions with a panel discussion on , presented by the UNITAR Global Water Academy and York.

“Some 2.5 billion people live in water stressed countries where the supply cannot meet the demand, while 46 per cent of the world's population lacks adequate sanitation services. Access to safe drinking water is inequitable and puts the safety of women and marginalized groups at risk,” says York Research Chair in Global Change Biology Professor , inaugural director of the UGWA and a freshwater expert. “Conflict, changes in land use and climate change are exacerbating water insecurity in urban, rural and agricultural areas. These are global issues that continue to worsen.”

York has a deep well of expertise in water research and action and along with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) Global Water Academy (UGWA) will help develop scientific-based and governance solutions and applications to address water issues in some of the most underserved areas and for those most affected by climate change, flooding, and drought.

“Water is strongly linked to political instability and economic inequality, and as both a leader in sustainability as well as a progressive teaching and research institution, it is our responsibility to take action on this critical issue,” says Rhonda Lenton, York’s president and vice-chancellor. “Our thriving partnership with UNITAR to create a first-of-its-kind Global Water Academy is one example of how collaboration across sectors and borders can drive positive change for our global communities.”

With UGWA, York is advancing much needed scholarship and virtual and hybrid learning developed by global leaders in water research, resource management and policy development. The courses will be for all relevant parties, including researchers, governments, and the public on everything water from how to mitigate water shortages caused by climate change to making drinking water cleaner and more accessible.

“The collaboration with �첥��Ƶ to create the Global Water Academy recognizes its vision and leadership to become Canada’s leader in research into water technologies spanning different sub disciplines including wastewater, drinking water, groundwater and surface water research. Together, we are developing solutions to the world’s water issues,” says Nikhil Seth, UN assistant secretary general and executive director of UNITAR. 

One of the goals is to empower learners everywhere to respond to water crises and to help achieve the UN SDG 6 – support capacity building of sustainable management of water especially for Indigenous communities and marginalized/equity-deserving groups.

An essential part of UGWA’s work is building a global network of water experts, scientists, and policymakers, and reaching out to local people in some of the hardest hit regions to learn about their specific water challenges to help address them through training and education. Building a space where people can connect, form partnerships and collaborate is essential.

Some places are going to be warmer and drier; others will become wetter and cooler. There is not one solution that can be applied across the world and that is why the network is so important. In their first year, the network has grown exponentially. Their most recent virtual panel at the United Nations in New York City attracted hundreds of people from 90 countries.

“For countries severely impacted by climate change and conflict, the lack of clean water can be life threatening,” says Sharma of the Faculty of Science who researches how lakes worldwide respond to climate change, including rapid ice loss, warming water temperatures, degrading water quality, and changing fish distributions. “Clean and safely managed water offers a way out of these crises. It’s why we must work together to advance goal six of the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals – ensuring access to water and sanitation for all.”

Part of outreach efforts include partnering with organizations such as the Aga Khan Museum. The event will include a dance performance and talk with York alumnus Sashar Zarif, a projection installation and virtual reality exhibit in the atrium and Bellerive Room – – co-created by Associate Professor of York’s School of Arts, Media, Performance and Design and Assistant Professor Dolleen Manning of Queen’s University. A panel discussion on water issues will follow.

Involved in the water work at York is Assistant Professor and Associate Professor , both of the Lassonde School of Engineering. Gora’s research focuses on drinking water management in small and Arctic communities, drinking water treatment and quality, and the development of light-based technologies for water purification and wastewater treatment. The water challenge goes beyond access and security, it also involves managing wastewater. Khan’s work focuses on urban hydrology, including flood risk assessment, sustainable water resource management and infrastructure, and how climate change impacts these systems.

Anther way York is supporting water research is through its organized research unit, One WATER, dedicated to finding strategic, integrated solutions to water challenges faced by communities here and across the globe.

It is only through engaging people and communities around the world that solutions to water challenges can be found.

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