Today, Fanshawe College President Peter Devlin signed the SDG Accord, signaling Fanshawe’s commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The SDGs are calls to action to address global challenges including poverty, inequality, climate change, peace and justice. Adopted in 2015 by member nations, including Canada, the target is to achieve these goals by 2030. The SDG Accord is a commitment made by colleges and universities “to embed the UN Sustainable Development Goals into our education, research, leadership, operations, administration and engagement activities.”
"We are proud to sign the SDG Accord, reaffirming our dedication to creating a sustainable future,” says Devlin. “By making this commitment, we pledge to integrate the principles of the Sustainable Development Goals in the College’s curriculum and operations. Our collective efforts will not only shape the minds of future leaders but also to contribute to a world where environmental, social and economic sustainability thrive."
In addition to signing the accord, Fanshawe has implemented a sustainability action plan that aligns with the SDGs. The plan was developed through a consultative process, rooted in primary and secondary research, to leverage the strengths of the College. The plan includes measurable targets with a focus on:
- Goal 3 - good health and well-being
- Goal 4 – quality education
- Goal 5 – gender equality
- Goal 8 – decent work and economic growth
- Goal 10 – reduce inequalities
- Goal 13 – climate action
- Goal 17 – partnerships for the goals
“The advancement of the SDG action plan is a critical next step in demonstrating Fanshawe's commitment to the goals,” says Jeff Wright, vice-president of corporate strategy and business development. “The plan aligns well with Fanshawe’s strategic goals, commitments and values, as well as our key functional areas across the College.”
“Fanshawe's SDG action plan builds on existing sustainability initiatives across the College,” says Candace Miller, executive director of business development and strategic support. “It integrates stretch targets that will have a measurable impact on collective progress towards the goals.”