SSAS Student Contributor

  • SSAS Field Journals: Cairns Tour with Facilities Management

    Wednesday, January 07, 2026 | By

    Blog Contributor: Ruth Horn

    Before touring the Cairns building, I’ll admit that I didn’t know what LEED certification really meant. I had heard the term before, but I couldn’t have explained what made a building “green” beyond maybe using less energy or recycling more. Walking through Cairns completely shifted that understanding. I realized that sustainability in architecture is far more complex and intentional than I ever imagined. It’s about designing every detail to serve a purpose for people, the planet, and even long-term economics.

    What impressed me right away was how the building integrates environmental and social sustainability together. For example, the overhangs and angled glass walls aren’t just aesthetic, they’re also designed to control light and heat, reducing the need for extra cooling while still making the space bright and inviting. Even something as simple as the main staircase was planned to encourage active living by drawing people to use it instead of the elevator. I’d never considered that architecture could influence behavior like that, but it made me see sustainability as something that connects to daily life, not just big systems.

    The technical parts of the tour were really interesting as well. The system that circulates air through the concrete floors to regulate temperature was something I never would have thought existed. It made me realize that sustainability can be incredibly innovative. It’s also about using the structure itself as a living system to save energy. I also found the huge fresh-air intake cool. I hadn’t thought about how buildings that include labs need 100% fresh air, or how that can be balanced with energy efficiency. The solutions built into Cairns showed that sustainability doesn’t mean sacrificing safety or performance. It’s about finding smart ways to meet both needs.

    The containment labs were another example of that balance. Hearing about the specialized materials, the hydrogen chloride-resistant caulking, and the acid-neutralizing glass pipes showed me how seriously safety and long-term durability are considered. It was also surprising to learn that the building uses a central steam plant and reverse osmosis water for temperature and humidity control. Every system seemed to be part of a bigger, connected network.

    One of the most unexpected things I learned was how much behaviour matters. The example of fume hoods left open wasting energy really stuck with me. It made me think about how even the most advanced sustainable building still relies on people making conscious choices.

    Overall, this tour turned sustainability from an abstract idea into something tangible and exciting. I came away seeing it as both an art and a science. It’s something that requires creativity, collaboration, and constant problem-solving. It also made me curious to keep learning, because I can now see how sustainability connects to almost everything: design, technology, health, and the way we live every day. 

    Categories: Blog, Experiential Education, SSAS Program, SSAS Student Contributor

  • SSAS Field Journals: Trails Tour with Facilities Management

    Wednesday, January 07, 2026 | By

    Blog Contributor: Ruth Horn

    The trails tour with Facilities Management was a completely different kind of sustainability experience from the other site visits and significantly more in my wheelhouse. Instead of high-tech systems and machinery, this one was all about observing how nature, infrastructure, and human use interact in real time. The tour opened my eyes to the small, often invisible ways that sustainability plays out in everyday landscapes.

    One of the first things I learned was about hedgerows and “utility mulch”. I’d never really thought about the idea of a hedgerow before. It’s such a simple feature, but it serves multiple purposes like providing habitat, acting as a buffer, and supporting biodiversity. The conversation about “no fire breaks” also got me thinking about how management decisions balance ecological value and safety. I realized that even what looks like an untouched natural area can actually be a carefully managed space shaped by both ecological and practical concerns.

    Hearing about the infrastructure beneath the trails was also fascinating. I was surprised to learn that three major water mains run underneath, carrying all the drinking water for St. Catharines and that the system will soon supply Niagara-on-the-Lake too. The idea that the forested area I was walking through was quietly sitting on top of a vital water system made me think about how much infrastructure is hidden in plain sight. It connected to the broader sustainability concept of systems thinking: how different networks (natural and human-made) overlap and rely on one another.

    One of the most memorable parts of the tour for me was learning about the effects of something as simple as mountain bike ruts. I had no idea that when people ride the trails in the rain, the tire tracks can change how water runs off, increasing erosion and even redirecting runoff. It was such a small detail, but it really stuck with me, especially as someone who bikes along those trails. It showed how small actions by individuals can have physical, lasting impacts on an ecosystem. It also made me think about shared outdoor spaces and how fragile they can be if not cared for properly.

    I found it interesting to watch our guide point out plants and trees as we walked. Seeing him notice trees and plants he hadn’t seen before and identify species in real time was helpful as this is something I would like to do in the future and it reminded me that I don’t need to know everything before sharing the information I do have. It gave me a better appreciation for the kind of ongoing observation and maintenance that goes into managing natural areas.

    Overall, the trails tour reminded me that sustainability isn’t just about new technologies or large-scale systems. It’s also about awareness, observation, and care for the environments we walk through every day. It made me notice how many layers of life and infrastructure coexist on campus, and how much we depend on both human effort and natural balance to keep them thriving.

    Categories: Blog, Experiential Education, SSAS Program, SSAS Student Contributor

  • SSAS Field Journals: Escarpment Renewables

    Wednesday, January 07, 2026 | By

    Blog Contributor: Ruth Horn

    When I arrived at Escarpment Renewables, I honestly thought we were visiting a coffee cup recycling plant. It was not at all what I was expecting which ended up being really neat. I learned a lot. I learned that the facility is part of a much larger, interconnected system that transforms organic waste into energy and that discovery completely changed the way I think about “waste” and what can be done with it.

    The process starts before the waste even arrives. I learned that Davidson, and other companies like it handle the first step by separating the organic and inorganic parts of things like coffee cups. The organic sludge from that process is then sent to Escarpment Renewables, which is owned by Miller Waste. I found it fascinating to realize how many different players are involved in making one system of waste diversion work. Each part is specialized, yet dependent on the others. It made me appreciate the scale and coordination needed to make sustainability happen beyond the individual level.

    The anaerobic digestion system itself was unlike anything I had seen before. The waste is heated to about 70°C with glycol to pasteurize it before spending around 40 days in massive digesters that are 20 feet deep. Inside, the material breaks down without oxygen, producing methane gas that’s collected in rubber bladders. That biogas is then used to generate about one megawatt of power per hour. That energy is used to power their own machines and then the extra energy is sold back to the grid. Learning that the heat used to maintain the system actually comes from the generator itself showed me how circular the process is. Nothing is wasted, not even the energy used to keep things running.

    I was also surprised to learn how carefully the system is maintained. There are weekly, biweekly, and monthly checkups for pumps, choppers, and pneumatic bulbs, and the digesters are fully cleaned every four to five years. It takes a whole month just to prepare for that process. That level of planning and care gave me a new respect for the people running these systems. The fact that there are just three operators, one engineer, and a manager is surprising. It’s a small team managing a massive operation that quietly supports sustainability for the entire region.

    What struck me most during this visit was how much of the waste process happens out of sight. When we throw things “away,” we rarely think about where “away” actually is. Seeing how 90 tonnes of waste a day can become biogas and organic fertilizer made me realize that sustainability isn’t just about recycling, but that it’s about innovation, chemistry, and constant problem-solving. Even the leftover solids that can’t be used are carefully handled and sent to landfill, while the liquid is turned into organic manure that goes back into farms.

    Leaving the tour, I felt like I understood the word “renewable” in a much deeper way. Escarpment Renewables isn’t just a waste facility. It’s also a reminder that with the right systems, waste can become a resource, and sustainability can literally power our communities, even if it started out as a failed project by the municipal government. 

    Categories: Blog, Experiential Education, SSAS Program, SSAS Student Contributor

  • First Year Experience Blog: Kinza Qureshi

    Thursday, December 04, 2025 | By

    Blog Contributor: Madelaine Legault

    Kinza Qureshi standing in front of trees.

    Kinza Qureshi is a first year student in the thesis pathway of the Master of Sustainability program at Brock University. She is working under the supervision of Dr. Marilyne Carrey and her research interests are in community resilience to climate change through nature-based solutions, sustainable development, and planning. She recently spoke to PhD in Sustainability Science student and graduate ambassador Madelaine Legault about her experience in her first term of the SSAS program.

    What inspired you to pursue graduate studies in environmental sustainability?  

     I decided to go into the field of environmental sciences for my undergrad, because in my country, I had seen a lot of issues regarding the environment, like flooding. There were not manyagencies in my country focused on the environment. There were a few that were working, but they were not getting the funding for that, so I decided to choose this pathway to help my people and to learn. I was studying environmental sciences broadly, and now I’m narrowing down to sustainability, because that’s the future. 

    How would you describe your typical day in the program? 

    Lately, I have been super busy with assignments, coursework, and TA work, so my days are honestly packed. I am also starting to work on planning my thesis with my supervisor. Right now, we are working on a topic. My focus is on the climate crisis and the communities that are directly affected by it. I want to build an empathy element by understanding their experiences, and I’musing geospatial data, remote sensing, and augmented reality to collect and present the impacts.  

    How do you think your research will contribute to sustainability science? 

    I had not previously considered the part that empathy plays in sustainability science. But now I realize that if we look at empathy and the way people have emotional connections with the subject, it could be an opportunity to engage with large audiences to let them know what the future would look like if we were all on the same page. It can shift people’s thinking towards sustainability and to work for the environment. Whenever we want to change something, we as a person need to change ourselves. And one thing that we all need to change is our empathy for nature and for the next generation. We are the last generation that has a chance to think about the future. We have to think about it. So, I think that empathy element in my research would look at the psychological connections to nature. And it could help bring a change in how we think of our future. 

    What program experiences have had the most impact on you? 

    Oh, I would say the field trips and like the “talking tree” project we are working on right now in SSAS 5V82 have really opened my mind. In my undergrad, I always wanted some practical experience, rather than just theory. So, these are opportunities for a different kind of learning rather than just pure theory. It’s a lesson that always stays in your mind. Like the tunnel tour we did, you can see that there’s a whole system underground that you didn’t know about before. 

    How has the program faculty and your peer group supported your academic journey? 

    My supervisor, Dr. Marilyne Carrey, has helped me a lot. She always encourages me to go to conferences and seminars, and she shares different opportunities inside and outside the university. She sees me and listens to what I want for my research. That’s really helped me because I’m from a different background, I have a different language, and I have to think before I speak. So, it’s really difficult for me, but she helps. Other than that, I would say my classmates are so friendly and help me whenever I need help. I just go and ask someone, and they’re always there to help.  

    How do you stay motivated when facing or when thinking about these complex and often very overwhelming crises? 

    One thing that motivates me is the idea that what I am facing today, I don’t want my future people to face. I have a connection with them. I don’t want my child to grow up in a world where they have no clean air to breathe, where they have issues like flooding and climate crisis or food insecurity issues. I think of future generations.  

    What advice would you give to someone considering graduate studies in sustainability science?  

    Oh, I always tell people to join this field because it’s growing and it’s the future. There are doctors that specialize in human beings, and people specialized in engineering, but students of the environment specialize in both nature and humans. I think this is an opportunity that is growing, and I would suggest that people come and explore. They would love this field! 

    Categories: Blog, Program Reflections, SSAS Program, SSAS Student Contributor, SSCI Student Contributor

  • First Year Experience Blog: Makenna Kollo

    Wednesday, December 03, 2025 | By

    Blog Contributor: Madelaine Legault

    Makenna Kollo standing in front of trees.

    Makenna Kollo is a first year student in the course-based pathway of the Master of Sustainability program. She recently sat down with PhD in Sustainability Science student and graduate ambassador Madelaine Legault to share her experience in the SSAS program as she finishes her first term.

    What inspired you to pursue graduate studies in environmental sustainability? 

    I completed my Bachelor of Recreation and Leisure Studies at Brock University, and through that, I did a lot of outdoor educational courses that were centered around our relationship with the environment. Climate change and climate action have been very important topics, especially with younger generations, and it was instilled in us that you cannot have a relationship with an environment or a natural space that no longer exists. So, my inspiration was trying to preserve, maintain and sustain environments for future generations to also have the same opportunities that I had as a child, like going to summer camp. I feel very passionate about it. I feel as though I can make a change. 

    How would you describe your typical day in the program?  

    I have four classes this term, so that leads me to be on campus three days a week for structured activity.  On Mondays, I have a biology course at night. Typically, I will do my readings and get everything done on Mondays and then go to class.  On Tuesdays and Thursdays, I also have classes. Those days involve me generating conversations with other students and faculty to broaden my perspectives and learn more about sustainability topics that are not within my scope of interest but expand my knowledge through conversations with my peers. And then I typically move on to a group meeting or work with my peers to work on projects together. It’s crucial in this role to try and think of other perspectives on sustainability. Overall, my days involve a lot of collaboration with faculty, staff, students, as well as other partners (both on and off campus) involved with the program. For example, this term we are working with Facilities Management at Brock and partners at Niagara Parks Commission. 

    What program experiences have had the most impact on you? 

    It almost feels like we’re doing an internship of sorts with different organizations in our courses with more experiential learning components. For example, right now we are working with the Niagara Parks Commission in SSAS 5P02 with Dr. Lina Taing. It feels as though we’re working directly with them towards a goal. Having the opportunity to work directly with an organization like that opens so many doors. It’s something I can speak about in interviews and in job applications. 

    I’m also thoroughly enjoying SSAS 5P82 with Dr. Marilyne Carrey. It is completely changing my perspective on what nature-based solutions are, because we are diving feet first into what they could be, rather than just learning the theory while sitting in a classroom. It is fully experiential, and she has developed this course where it is all to the beat of your own drum. We work collaboratively as a class towards a final goal. For example, we’re creating a “talking tree” tour right now. We’re choosing a tree, and we’re explaining how it’s impactful on the environment around it, and then also how we’re connected to the tree. We’re also talking about why you should care about it, and why it’s important. My tree is the eastern white pine, which is typically found within eastern Canada, and it is the provincial tree of Ontario. I have a tattoo of it, I’m super into it! 

    How has your understanding of sustainability science evolved since starting your graduate studies? 

    I’m embarrassed to admit it, but I was a small thinker before I came into the program. I thought of sustainability strictly in terms of environmental sustainability in natural landscapes. I was thinking of forests, mountains, fields, things like that. But for example, in one of our courses, we’ve done a tour of the energy system on campus, and through that I was able to understand that it’s not just cost effective when you turn off your light bulbs or your light switches or unplug something, it’s actually better for the environment.  

    In our courses, we talk a lot about international implications and sustainability sciences in our courses. It takes my understanding from a local to a global level. It’s broadening my horizons.  

    How has the program faculty and your peer group supported your academic journey? 

    There’s not a single time that I speak to my professors when they don’t have a smile across their face.  They are so welcome to new ideas about the program, about how they teach, even about what you have to say about a topic, which really makes it more intriguing and appealing to go to class. They are guideposts that I have definitely clung to. 

    As for my peers, I just love listening to people talk. We have backgrounds in chemistry and aviation, and water resource management, and then we have someone working in the wine industry, and then we have a politician. There’s just so many vastly different perspectives and somehow, we all care about the same things. It’s just so interesting. It’s making me a better person just to sit with them and hear why they care about sustainability. It’s amazing that we get to come together and all work towards a common goal while being such different people and still staying true to ourselves at the same time.  

    I think every vantage point is also so necessary in this field, because addressing this issue is arguably like the largest target that we will ever have. And it is not a solo job, and solutions do not come from one perspective but from a community of people that have banded together to make a change. And that’s what we’re seeing is happening here. 

    How do you stay motivated when facing or when thinking about these complex and often very overwhelming crises? 

    I’m going to share a story. Last year, maybe two years ago, I think it was an El Niño year, where we saw a lot of climate events happening. I was on a side of social media that was just full of doom. I would go on my phone and I would scroll, and I would see glaciers melting, a volcano in Iceland is blowing up, hurricanes, countries going underwater… I hated the fact that I could scroll past these news events and not think about it again. Part of me staying motivated comes from not wanting to see these things happen again. If I give up, I’m just one more person that’sconforming to the idea that someone else will fix it. So, I say, why not me? I’m so grateful that I get to have an education and that I get to be here, to have networking possibilities to advance into industries that can push for these changes. It’s not something that everyone can do in their lives. So, I take every day with grace.  

    What advice would you give to someone thinking about graduate studies in sustainability science?  

    Stay true to yourself. There’s a lot of people out there that don’t believe in sustainability science or have differing opinions about it. And I would say if this is where your heart lies, stick with it. You will be fruitful in any endeavor that you pursue when you are passionate about it. Also take every opportunity that comes to you. Someone asks you to volunteer? Do it. Someone asks you to join this class with them? Do it. If someone asks you to sit down for a coffee chat, absolutely do it. Because the best way to build and learn is to listen to other people. So, if you’re thinking about doing a masters in sustainability science, I say jump in, feet first. Take the risk. Take as many risks as you can but be true to you. 

    Categories: Blog, Program Reflections, SSAS Student Contributor, SSCI Student Contributor

  • Reflecting on my First Year Experience

    Friday, June 02, 2023 | By

    Blog Contributor: Natalie Seniuk

    In the fall of 2022, I stepped away from my career as an environmental planner and project manager to pursue a graduate degree. When I found the Master’s of Sustainability Science and Society program at Brock, I knew it was the fit I had been looking for: a program focused on sustainability and climate change but through a social sciences lens. Beyond the academic fit, Brock is also my hometown university, and I am the second generation in my family to attend, following in the footsteps of the women in my family.

    Coming into the program as a mature student with a background in the environmental field, I didn’t know what exactly I would be adding to my knowledge bank. To say I have learned new things during this past year would be an understatement. Beyond acquiring new knowledge, I have been challenged to think in a new way: to dig deeper and question the potential impacts of sustainability and climate actions when value isn’t placed on the interconnectedness of the social and natural systems we live within. Having access to research, knowledge, and perspectives that are generally inaccessible outside of academic environments has reminded me of all that is happening, not just in industry, but in knowledge development and research. Working to further connect these two worlds is where I see myself applying my education when I complete my thesis next year.

    As a mature student and parent to a tiny person, it was a challenging first year. Needing to juggle academic and parental responsibilities felt overwhelming at times and making choices to step back from participating in things at school and home often felt like a sacrifice. Looking back, I recognize the benefits of having a full academic and personal life at the same time, it just looks a little different than it did when it was only me. With the support of my family, and faculty and staff at the university I have been able to achieve so much…and with my second year approaching, I am looking forward to new opportunities that I’m sure will continue to challenge me both academically and personally.

    This coming year, I am hoping to make a trip out of province to support my thesis project, and will be participating a graduate student experiential learning program through the university of Guelph.

    Categories: Blog, Program Reflections, SSAS Program, SSAS Student Contributor

  • Reflecting on My First Year in the SSAS Program

    Tuesday, May 02, 2023 | By

    Blog Contributor: Sydney McIntyre

    Does time really fly when you’re having fun? I can confirm that indeed, it does. As this semester comes to an end, it is now time to reflect on my first year in the masters of sustainability program at Brock. I think specifically this year, our cohort was special because it was the first time in three years that school felt like school. Face to face learning, real time discussions and simply being able to laugh in person with  friends and colleagues was very special (and something I will never take for granted ever again!). I am so thankful that I got to have my first year back in class in the SSAS program! It’s hard to believe that it has been 8 months since I started my graduate degree and am quickly approaching my co-op work term this summer, followed by my MRP completion this coming fall.

    I would first like to address the relationships I have built with all faculty and students over the past 8 months. Since the very first day of orientation, the SSAS program surpassed all my expectations. I think I can speak for my entire cohort when saying the faculty are so welcoming and truly make you feel as though someone is always in your corner, consistently cheering you on. Every single professor went above and beyond their duties; making sure content was thought-provoking, communicating and critiquing when appropriate, as well as always ensuring our well-being was put first.

    In addition to my professors, my peers quickly became a huge part of my graduate experience as I built wonderful, life-time friendships that I will forever cherish. Everyone in my cohort came from different educational backgrounds with overall different academic interests; however, this brought forward so many diverse perspectives and insightful knowledge that I don’t think can be taught from reading books or listening to lectures.

    This brings me into my understanding and perspectives on sustainability science, and how they have changed since my first day in September. I went into this program with a heavy science background, a love for conservation, and general interest in saving the environment; and thought “yeah that sums up sustainability science”. Was I ever wrong! Although this program is perfect for my interests, it is also so much more. I have learned exactly what it means to really think like a sustainability scientist and widen my perspectives when looking to address the world’s most complex challenges; examples being incorporating social aspects, considering economic ties, and defending nature when it’s needed the most!

    The class content I received throughout my first year was like no other. There were field trips with community-partner collaborations, consistent discussions and idea sharing, as well as critical aspects such as presentations and forming mock climate action plans that really pushed for knowledge development. I think my favourite classes this year were SSAS 5P01 and SSAS 5P03. In 5P01: Foundations of Sustainability Science and Society, we were introduced to the main topics of sustainability. I really loved this class because Dr. Blythe and my fellow classmates really created a safe space for discussion, often bringing forward passionate opinions and encouraging active participation. Likewise, in 5P03: Problem Solving In the Environment, Dr. Plummer collaborated with Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) to create a collaborative project, in which all of us gained project management and consulting experience. This class was great because it gave us real-life work practice, but also established connections with professionals in the field of sustainability.

    Lastly, I think it is important to leave a note for potential future students thinking of entering the SSAS program – do it! If you have ever thought about contributing to real world problems and making a true difference, this program will bring you one step closer in achieving your goals. I was never someone who even thought about applying for my masters, however, here I am 8 months in with a brain full of sustainability expertise, irreplaceable friends, amazing experiences and ½ a master’s degree – all with zero regrets!

    Categories: Blog, Program Reflections, SSAS Student Contributor

  • My First Year in the SSAS Program

    Wednesday, April 19, 2023 | By

    Blog Contributor: Sanjida Amin

    I still remember the sense of gratification I felt when I accepted the offer letter from Sustainability Science and Society (SSAS). I was looking forward to learning and enhancing my knowledge of sustainability while studying with a bunch of my peers from around the world. As an international student, I was nervous about moving across the globe and attempting to fit into the classroom of sustainability which is one of the most diverse classrooms in the entire world. However, I had no time to worry once my experience at SSAS started. I was able to find my groove and build my confidence with the help of my awesome supervisor, encouraging peer group, amazing faculty members and the supportive administration. It’s hard to imagine that I joined the Sustainability Science and Society (SSAS) programme only a few months ago and now I am almost done with my first year.  I must say that time surely flies! Since taking that very first class, I have learned a lot about sustainability, encountered with some amazing individuals, made some life-long memories, achieved valuable work experience, and successfully submitted my thesis proposal. Throughout this blog, I will be sharing my experiences which I have gathered through the completion of my first year of the program here at Brock.

    First and second term:

    I am in the thesis scheme and I had to take four courses in total throughout the academic year. The design of the SSAS masters course are truly appreciated since all those courses cover a variety of topics including basic sustainability concepts to research methodology. SSAS 5P01: Foundations of Sustainability Science and Society was one of my favourite classes which introduced the core ideas of sustainability science and society. I also really enjoyed SSAS 5P02: Methods for Environmental Inquiry since it provided me with opportunity to learn about the methods of research and explore my research methodology ideas, particularly in the context of sustainability science. SSAS 5P04: Transdisciplinary Seminar course was very helpful for me because every seminar discussion was full of relevant knowledge, information and practical experiences which illustrated the transition period along with the challenges and opportunities to become a sustainability graduate throughout the whole journey. I had another interesting course namely SSAS: 5P80 Directed Study which was taken under the direct supervision of my supervisor, specifically to explore the previous literature and to accumulate the knowledge in the field of my research areas. All of these courses provided me with a deeper understanding of the diversified dimensions of sustainability science and really highlighted the programme’s goal to be transdisciplinary.

    My thesis and research proposal presentation:

    Understanding my research interests and working on my thesis proposal took up a significant portion of my first year in the graduate program. My research is on “Predicting Consumers’ Sustainable Food Consumption Behaviour”. This proposal presentation session was the most interesting component of my SSAS masters journey. We the students from SSAS, 2022 cohort shared our preliminary research (Thesis/MRP) proposals and research ideas with the audience in the area of sustainability. I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation for this proposal presenting session, which was both exciting and nerve-wracking. Finally, after getting valuable feedback and great compliments from my peers, supervisors and faculty members, I felt relaxed. It was extremely impressive to see how faculty members, supervisors, former students, and ESRC staff members attended and took an interest in each issue that was discussed. I am grateful to my supervisor Dr. Todd Green to be extremely supportive, to motivate me to present my research proposal in a room full of scholars and to guide me to the right direction throughout my journey. Throughout my first year, I have come to realize how much I enjoy doing research. I am looking forward to finishing my thesis with some outstanding findings. I can’t wait to take on the challenge of research, even though it offers its unique set of challenges and I still have a lot to learn.

    Research Assistantship position:

    I have worked as a Research Assistant for The Brock University Project Charter in addition to taking classes and doing my thesis for this year. I have got an excellent team in this project to work with whom I developed social media contents, wrote blog posts, hosted multiple events, submitted data for Times Higher Impact Ranking, and worked on several initiatives to advance sustainability and awareness around the campus. Moreover, I worked on promoting, measuring and tracking the social media platforms for the Sustainability at Brock initiative as a part of this. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Amanda Smits, Madison Lepp, Alexandra Cotrufo and Kassie Burns for their immense support and kindness while working for the project.

    People and Relationships:

    Last but not least, the relationships I have made with my cohorts, faculty members, my supervisor and administrative staffs here at the SSAS have been the most favourite part of this academic year. I have gathered a bunch of wonderful memories while studying, working, discussing and enjoying time with these amazing people of the SSAS program at Brock. I have had the pleasure of working with some of the loveliest people who are all passionately committed to advancing sustainability and making a positive difference for the environment. Each and every individual I have met through this programme has taught me something new, motivated me through their kind words and supported me in every single way. Coming abroad for study, moving away from home country for the first time, adjusting to new weather, copying with new academic, cultural and social challenges, and getting used to the unknown surroundings was not an easy journey for me initially. However, with the help and support of this people mentioned above, I made it to increase confidence and courage beyond my imagination. Wherever I will be, I believe that the strong bonding I have established with this group will stay with me for the rest of my life. I would love to cherish all these memories forever!

    Categories: Blog, Innovative Partnership, Program Reflections, SSAS Student Contributor

  • Reflection on My First Year

    Wednesday, April 19, 2023 | By

    Blog Contributor: Kassie Burns

    Seems only yesterday I was entering my first class, nervous and excited for what would come next. I knew I would be walking into an amazing journey, leading me to different learning experiences and opportunities, but I had not expected to be surrounded by such supportive and incredible individuals. Without a doubt the most memorable experience I will have from this program is the relationships I have built, (cliché but true!).

    Immediately I felt welcomed into the program by the faculty and staff and was delighted to get to know them better. It was clear from the beginning that they genuinely cared about student success and wanted to inspire future generations. I have never experienced such passionate, hardworking educators throughout my academic and professional career than the members of the Environmental Sustainability Research Centre (ESRC). They are leaders in sustainability and their respective fields that have given me the confidence, encouragement, and support I needed to progress through the program. I cannot stress enough how much of a comfort that gave me to help direct me in my graduate studies and sincerely thank them for their dedication to students!

    In addition to getting to know faculty and staff better, I was also able to meet some incredible peers! It did not take much time to learn of the sushi lovers and talented bowlers in the group. Their humour and personalities made the stresses of the academic year much easier, and everyone was eager to help one another. We would share resources, talk about our research ideas, practice presentations, work on projects together, and cheered when individuals secured co-op placements and research accomplishments that made my academic experience even more enjoyable. The people I have met here and the atmosphere they brought were dynamic!

    I could go on about the amazing journey I had in my first year of the program, but I will end with discussing the variety of learning opportunities that presented itself throughout the year. The traditional settings of listening to lectures went out the window. To my delight, there were several experiential learning occasions with field trips ranging from walking the Bruce Trail behind campus and experiencing the UNESCO Biosphere, to tours of the campus energy systems, and witnessing projects happening with Niagara Parks Commission. All of which pathed way to an immersive means to learn our studies in practice. Classes were flexible to incorporate student interests and followed opportunities that emerged. This led to a trip to the Town of Lincoln to learn more on tree canopies that was initially never planned but was an amazing way to experience community projects and benefits of using Global Positioning System (GPS) technologies. A highlight of the year was a course dedicated to evolving student project management skills, where we were tasked with an assignment aligning with the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority, a community partner. For the entire term we collaborated to complete the deliverables that were presented to many of the staff, including their CAO, and were able to see our work mobilized into practice. Not to mention the several professionals in the industry giving guest lectures on a variety of topics related to sustainability science that introduced new topics and perspectives to me. There were so many workshops and conferences I was able to participate in, with a never-ending list of incredible experiences that elevated my academic year.

    Overall, I am so pleased I was able to participate in this program, that not only gave me the opportunity to explore my research interests but also helped me grow as a professional!

    Categories: Blog, Co-Op, Program Reflections, SSAS Student Contributor

  • A Lunch and Learn on Climate Readiness at Niagara Parks

    Monday, December 19, 2022 | By

    Blog Contributor: Shannon Heaney

    On November 24th, 2022, the Excellence in Environmental Stewardship Initiative (EESI), a partnership between the Environmental Sustainability Research Centre (ESRC) and the Niagara Parks Commission, held a lunch and learn at the Legends on Niagara Golf Course. The lunch and learn afforded an opportunity to share information about the Niagara Parks Climate Readiness Plan, developed by the EESI, and discuss implementation actions for the future.

    Ryan Plummer welcomed everyone and Steve Barnhart, Senior Director for Planning, Environment, and Culture, opened the event with a land acknowledgment. Ryan Plummer and Shannon Heaney then presented an overview of the Niagara Parks Climate Readiness Plan. Their presentation described the development of the plan, illustrated climate scenarios in the Niagara Region, and identified climate related threats specific to Niagara Parks.

    The presentation also set out the three overarching goals which are the foundation of the plan. The three goals are to: 1) ensure public safety, 2) minimize risk to infrastructure, and 3) reduce net environmental, human and infrastructure costs of climate impacts.

    Corey Burant, Project Manager for Forest Health Parks, Planning and Properties, shared information about the many current initiatives by Niagara Parks which address climate change such as native shoreline rehabilitation, the completion of the Feast on Certificate, and incentivizing sustainable travel among others.

    Following the presentation, the EESI team next posed the following open-ended questions to over 25 attendees:

    1. How can you implement the climate readiness plan in your individual role?
    2. How can you implement the climate readiness plan in your business unit?
    3. How can Niagara Parks implement the climate readiness plan on an organization level?
    4. What can Niagara Parks do to build capacity to support implementation of the climate readiness plan?

    Members of Niagara Parks carefully considered these questions and discussed them with their colleagues and were invited to record their ideas on sticky notes.

    The discussion resulted in various interests and ideas from attendees. The first three questions, which asked about implementation of the Climate Readiness Plan, yielded similar themes. These themes included an interest in continual education and knowledge sharing about the Climate Readiness Plan, identifying ways to integrate and implement the Climate Readiness Plan including actions at the individual, business unit, and organizational level. Further, there was a strong interest regarding collaboration within Niagara Parks, as well as with external partners, and fostering motivations and ideas at all levels related to climate readiness. The discussion also generated excellent ideas on specific actions that could be implemented across Niagara Parks related to climate readiness.

    The final question asked attendees to reflect on how Niagara Parks could build capacity to support implementation of the Climate Readiness Plan. Attendees echoed the themes above, identifying education and awareness as an important way to build capacity, as well as expanding collaboration both internally and externally, with partnerships that align with Niagara Parks mandate and mission.

    Steve Barnhart, Senior Director for Planning, Environment and Culture, concluded the event by discussing next steps related to the Climate Readiness Plan within Niagara Parks. As participants left the event with an infographic in hand, requests were made for similar events in the future. The lunch and learn was a huge success, and sparked conversations about the Climate Readiness Plan which will continue beyond the 1-hour lunch and learn event.

    Categories: Applied Research, Blog, Conferences, Environmental Stewardship Initiative, Innovative Partnership, SSAS Student Contributor

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