SUSTAINABILITY AND EQUITY
The McGill Biology Students’ Union (MBSU) is committed to fostering an environmentally responsible, inclusive, and equitable community within the Department of Biology and beyond. As students in the life sciences, we recognize the interconnectedness of ecological sustainability and social justice.
We aim to promote accessible programming, responsible event planning, and meaningful engagement with sustainability and equity initiatives at McGill and in Montreal.
Sustainability & Equity at MBSU
Sustainable Event Practices
Minimize single-use plastics at events
Offer plant-based food options whenever possible
Use reusable or compostable materials
Reduce printed materials and prioritize digital communication
Encourage the use of public transportation
Financial Accessibility
Low-cost or free events whenever possible
Transparent budgeting practices
Sponsorships used to reduce financial barriers for students
Inclusive Programming
Diverse speaker representation across research and career panels
Research spotlights featuring underrepresented scientists
Collaboration with equity-focused student organizations
Clear codes of conduct at events
Accessibility
- Select accessible venues
- Share event details in advance
- Provide materials digitally when possible
- Welcome feedback regarding accessibility and accommodation needs
Students requiring accommodations are encouraged to contact us directly.
Sustainability & Equity at McGill
| Organization | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| McGill Office of Sustainability | Campus sustainability initiatives, volunteer opportunities, and sustainable labs programming |
| McGill Sustainable Systems Initiative (MSSI) | Interdisciplinary sustainability research and student engagement |
| McGill Food Systems Project | Student-led initiative focused on sustainable food systems |
| SEDE (Social Equity and Diversity Education Office) | Workshops, anti-oppression training, and equity resources |
| Office for Students with Disabilities (OSD) | Academic accommodations and accessibility services |
| Union for Gender Empowerment (UGE) | Gender equity advocacy and safer space initiatives |
| Black Students’ Network of McGill (BSN) | |
| Indigenous Student Alliance (ISA) | |
| Queer McGill | |
| Women in Science & Engineering (WISE McGill) |
Sustainability & Equity in Montreal
| Organization | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Équiterre | Environmental advocacy and sustainable transition initiatives |
| Sierra Club Québec | Environmental protection and climate advocacy |
| Santropol Roulant | Community meals, urban agriculture, and food security initiatives |
| Head & Hands | Youth health and social services |
| Centre for Gender Advocacy (Concordia) | |
| Native Women’s Shelter of Montreal | |
| Action Réfugiés Montréal |