Colleagues,

As the cost of energy continues to rise, Western will be taking a number of proactive steps to reduce our energy consumption, save resources and green our campus. During the peak energy months this summer, Western will be operating on reduced cooling between the hours of 2-6 p.m. 

It is likely that temperature changes within the buildings won’t be significant, but small changes equally big energy savings.  It is anticipated that through this measure alone the university will be able to realize savings of nearly $500,000. Western is committed to embedding sustainability into every facet of daily life and has pledged to minimize its impact on the environment. 

Beyond what is being done centrally, employee participation could lead to a further 10-15 per cent reduction in energy consumption.  Campus community members are encouraged to engage in the following types of initiatives to contribute to our general sustainability on an ongoing basis.

Some simple considerations:

·   Lower blinds to prevent the sun from beaming into a room reducing the amount of work required by air conditioners;

·   Turn lights off when a room is not in use;

·    Avoid “phantom power” - unplug electronics/appliances when they are not in use;

·    Set your computers/laptops to energy saving mode.

In the weeks ahead, you will be offered the opportunity to actively participate in Western initiatives that will champion our sustainability efforts, and specifically our drive to be more energy efficient during the warmest months of the year.

 

More information can be found on the Facilities Management homepage  at http://uwo.ca/fm. For further questions on the cooling initiative, please contact Paul Martin at finplm@uwo.ca or extension 85421.

I appreciate your cooperation as we work together to enhance Western’s conservation efforts.

Roy Langille

Associate VP of Facilities Management