We are thankful to be welcome on these lands in friendship. The lands we are situated on are covered by the Williams Treaties and are the traditional territory of the Mississaugas, a branch of the greater Anishinaabeg Nation, including Algonquin, Ojibway, Odawa and Pottawatomi. These lands remain home to many Indigenous nations and peoples.

We acknowledge this land out of respect for the Indigenous nations who have cared for Turtle Island, also called North America, from before the arrival of settler peoples until this day. Most importantly, we acknowledge that the history of these lands has been tainted by poor treatment and a lack of friendship with the First Nations who call them home.

This history is something we are all affected by because we are all treaty people in Canada. We all have a shared history to reflect on, and each of us is affected by this history in different ways. Our past defines our present, but if we move forward as friends and allies, then it does not have to define our future.

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Faces of sustainability: Scott Beemer

Posted by Guest Author on July 28, 2015

Who are you and what do you do on campus?

My name is Scott Beemer and I am a student in the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science. I also work for UOIT's Office of Campus Infrastructure and Sustainability (OCIS).

How did you get started in environmental work, and how long have you been interested in it?

I started in environmental work when I became an OCIS employee. I have been interested in environmental work for years.

What does sustainability mean to you?

To me it implies taking what we need to live now without jeopardizing the potential for people in the future to meet their needs.

When did you first become interested in sustainability?

I first became interested when I entered the Engineering program; sustainability plays a large role in the practice of engineering.

What brought you to your role/program on the campus?

I chose to enter Engineering because I am interested in solving problems.

What could UOIT do to become more sustainable?

The university could invest in solar panels. which would increase the amount free energy the school produces.

What’s your favourite environmental hobby or activity away from work?

My favourite environmental hobby is to go for a run outside.

What sustainable steps do you take daily at home?

I always try to turn the lights off at home when I don't need them, and be conservative with electricity and water consumption in general.

What sustainable steps do you take daily on campus?

I bring a reusable water bottle and coffee mug to campus, and always recycle appropriately.

How would you challenge UOIT students and staff to become less wasteful?

I would challenge students to use their UOIT-provided reusable water bottle more often, and to bring a reusable mug when they decide to purchase a beverage from Tim Hortons on campus.

What would you recommend to someone on campus who is interested in sustainability?

I would suggest they look into joining the Blue Team.

Filed under: Faces of sustainability