City of Colwood and Royal Roads University Partner on Green Initiatives

Victoria, B.C. - Royal Roads University and the City of Colwood today signed a memorandum of understanding to partner on a series of sustainability initiatives to help Colwood become Canada's first "Green Learning City."

The agreement calls for the university and the city to work together on projects, research and education in support of Colwood's goal to become a community that is carbon neutral, energy-positive (i.e., produce more energy than it consumes) and water smart.

"These joint initiatives will help our city meet important environmental objectives," said Colwood mayor David Saunders.  "What's more, by recognizing the potential of a green economy, we will spark our economy by attracting new residents, businesses and organizations interested in participating in a forward-thinking, sustainable community."

RRU president Allan Cahoon says the agreement allows the university to act on key goals relating to education, sustainability and community service.

"These include providing meaningful applied learning and research opportunities for our students and demonstrating both community and global leadership in education and sustainability," said Cahoon. "This partnership is a great example of our commitment to be a catalyst for new ideas, new thoughts, new actions."

Projects already planned under the agreement include a proposal to the federal Clean Energy Fund for $3.5 million to create a model geo-solar development and an undertaking by an RRU Bachelor of Commerce marketing class to re-brand Colwood as a green learning city. Other projects under development include collaboration on waste and energy recovery opportunities for both Colwood and Royal Roads University.

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For media queries, contact:

Communications Officer, Phil Saunders

phil.saunders@royalroads.ca  250-391-2526, cel 250-812-5065 or,

Colwood Mayor, David Saunders

mayor@colwood.ca, 250-478-5999