Saint Mary's University (SMU)

About

Saint Mary’s University, founded in 1802, is guided by a mission to educate whole persons rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition, upholding values of dignity, inclusion, and service. With a student body of roughly 6,200 and a dedicated core of faculty and staff, it offers programs across Arts, Science, Business, and graduate studies. Its research excels in interdisciplinary themes such as climate and environmental studies, public policy, health sciences, and innovation. On its urban Halifax campus, modern labs, observatory, student centres, and global partnerships support a vibrant learning community poised for local and international impact.

Sustainablity at Saint Mary's University

SMU is committed to sustainability as a guiding principle across teaching, research, campus life, and community outreach. From incorporating sustainable thinking into curriculum and supporting interdisciplinary environmental research to cultivating a campus culture of resource stewardship, ethical sourcing, and carbon reduction, SMU embraces a holistic approach that reflects core values of respect, equity, and innovation. Its efforts align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals—especially Quality Education, Climate Action, and Partnerships—preparing graduates to lead positive change locally and globally.

The university has developed a reputation for environmental responsibility that is evident in everything from our far-reaching research endeavors to a variety of initiatives including:

• The renowned School of the Environment
• Two research-based green roofs
• The Atrium building built to LEED Silver standards
• A three-story living wall in the Atrium
• A major energy conservation project
• A widespread recycling program
• A tobacco-free campus in 2013
• An annual Sustainability Week held in March
• A conversion from oil to natural gas that reduces our carbon footprint by about 33%

Saint Mary’s is also home to the Atlantic Centre for Green Chemistry, and our faculty and students conduct leading research projects in areas including water quality, wildlife conservation and global warming.

More information

Find more details on sustainability at SMU here.