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: Grant McLean

Posted by Guest Author on July 28, 2015

Who are you and how does sustainability fit with what you do on campus?

My name is Grant McLean. I am a student at UOIT and currently employed by the Office of Campus Infrastructure and Sustainability where we help with sustainability initiatives for the university, such as planting trees and issuing reusable water bottles for students.

What does sustainability mean to you?

To me, it means the ability for an environment to sustain a healthy ecosystem now and in the future.

When did you first become interested in sustainability?

I first became interested in sustainability during the global warming crisis and became more concerned with the environment.

What could UOIT do to become more sustainable?

The downtown Oshawa location could be relocated to the north Oshawa location so students do not need to drive to class.
Offer more public transit, or a shuttle bus from the north Oshawa location to the downtown Oshawa location.
Put solar panels on top of the buildings on campus.
The university vehicles could be switched to hybrid vehicles, or smart cars. The security guards should be on bicycles.
Professors can make all assignments and exams done on the computer to reduce the use of paper.

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

My favourite environmental hobbies include biking, rollerblading and swimming.

Who are your eco-heroes?

My eco-hero is Leonardo DiCaprio because of the environmental work he does through his foundation.

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

I challenge students to:

Use the stairs instead of the elevator.
Walk or bike to campus instead of driving.
Use reusable water bottles and coffee mugs.

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

I would recommend that they get involved with the Blue Team. You can email sustainability@uoit.ca or find them at events around the university.

Filed under: Faces of sustainability