Environmental Steering Committee Terms of Reference

Mission Statement:

The University is committed to sustainable development and the preservation and enhancement of natural ecosystems on campus and integrating human activities with these ecosystems.

Problem Statement:

The aim of McMaster's environmental policy is:

  • to identify and establish environmental principles, objectives and goals
  • to provide a framework for developing environmental procedures and initiatives
  • to communicate its approach to all stakeholders
  • to respond to concerns as raised by the McMaster community
  • to partner with students to recognize groups on campus or in the greater community who preserve and enhance the natural ecosystems on campus and contribute to environmental sustainability

Boundaries:

The issues to be studied include, but are not necessarily limited, to:

  • solid waste
  • hazardous waste
  • indoor and outdoor air quality
  • energy use
  • transportation
  • water
  • groundskeeping methods

The committee's authority and power come from the Board of Governors through the Office of the Vice-President (Administration) in accordance with relevant legal and moral obligations.  Those matters outside its jurisdiction will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

Desired Outcomes:

The policy has three desired outcomes:

  • Short-term: compliance with McMaster's legal and social obligations under Canadian and provincial legislation
  • Medium-term: substantial movement toward meeting the sustainability mission
  • Long-term:  become a university leader in our community, nationally and internationally with respect to moving toward a sustainable future

Membership:

  • Assistant Director, Physical Plant
  • Vice-President (Administration)
  • McMaster Students Union representative
  • Alumni Association representative
  • Graduate Students Association representative
  • Manager, Purchasing
  • Representative from All-Modes Commuting and Transportation (ACT) Office
  • Representative from MACgreen
  • Landscape Designer/Grounds Manager
  • Faculty/Research Representative
  • Faculty of Health Sciences Representative
  • Inter-Residence Council Representative
  • Environmental and Occupational Health Support Services Representative

Membership Term:

  • Two or three years (flexible).

Accountability:

  • The Environmental Policy Committee will report to the Board of Governors through the Vice-President (Administration).

Meetings:

  • Frequency: quarterly.
  • Meetings are open.