Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation.
This goal drives economic growth and social development by recognizing it is dependent on investment in infrastructure and innovation. It relates to the progress of technology as a key factor in creating solutions that can promote new jobs while aiding in environmental strategies such as efficient use of resources that can improve the standard living for all.
Taking Action
Initiatives at Brock University
SPARK Initiative
Brock’s investment and commitment to the SPARK (sustainability, performance, adaptation, renewal and knowledge) initiative will catapult Brock towards the pinnacle of sustainable innovation for universities in Canada. The initiative is coming to life through partnerships with Enbridge Sustain and the Canadian Infrastructure Bank. The plan includes a plethora of new infrastructure investments, such as automated water and power controls, new LED lighting campus-wide, and HVAC upgrades. Overall, this project will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 83% before 2030!
Goodman Group
The Goodman Group offers practical and experiential learning at Brock University by working with faculty, staff, alumni, community partners, entrepreneurs, and students. Their platform has an entrepreneurial hub to deliver services and programs to the Brock and Niagara community.
Schmon Tower LINC Project
The Schmon Tower LINC Project has created more accessible entrances and routes into the Tower building as well as bringing in increased natural light from its skylight. The new construction was integrated with older parts of the building to create a second storey collaborative learning and innovation space.
Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI)
An outreach service called VineAlert was developed by Brock’s Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI). The system will track grapevine bud cold hardiness in the fall to spring to assist grape growers in reducing the impact of a cold weather event, which can cause harm to vines and crop loss. This transfer to technology is lifting the industry high to support grape growers with licensing of VineAlert given to two associations, the Grape Growers of Ontario (GGO) and Centre de Recherche Agroalimentaire de Mirabel.
Brock’s MIWSFPA achieves Gold LEED certification
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a certification that can be awarded to buildings in pursuit of meeting more sustainable infrastructure. Brock is pleased to announce the Marilyn I. Walker School of Fine and Performing Arts (MIWSFPA) achieved a Gold LEED certification. Brock is proud of this achievement as it is challenging to get LEED certification on pre-existing buildings. This marks the third building on campus to be LEED-certified.
Vineland, Town of Lincoln, and Brock Partnership
The ESRC at Brock is partnered with the Town of Lincoln and Vineland Research to collaborate on new ways to incorporate nature-based solutions with intent to implement landscaping policies immediately. Vineland Research and Innovation Centre is dedicated to bringing innovative and sustainable solutions to horticulture science in Canada. Together the three organizations have launched the Prudhommes Project that focuses on building approaches to ecosystem and urban landscape development.
Initiatives in the Niagara Region
Vertical farm in Welland’s Industrial Zone
A new vertical farm was created in Welland’s industrial zone that uses advanced irrigation and artificial lighting to grow crops indoors. The new technique reduces energy inputs and improves food security due to year-round production capabilities and decreasing the physical footprint compared to traditional farming methods.
Twenty Mile Arch Bridge Replacement
The Twenty Mile Arch Bridge in Lincoln has recently finished construction, completing the revitalization of Sho’aríshon Park and Twenty Mile Creek in Jordan Hollow.
