January is a special month, where every year thousands of people participate in Veganuary: a global campaign that encourages folks to experiment with veganism for a whole month. Since its launch in the UK in 2014 as a charity campaign, the movement has expanded worldwide.
>> read more on page 04
YOUR ROLE AS A STUDENT UTM NATURE TRAIL
From 2002 to 2022, the total amount of solid waste generated in Canada increased by 19 per cent and reached a whopping 36.5 million tonnes, according to Statistics Canada. When it comes to the topic of sustainability, university might not be the first place that comes to mind.
>> read more on page 07
As a Toronto resident, I’d originally planned on spending my first year at UTM then transferring to the St George Campus. That changed after my first orientation tour, I was blown away by how lovely and secluded our campus is in the forest.
>> read more on page 08
New interdisciplinary research club hosts inaugural event
Aaron Calpito News Editor
The Humanities and Social Sciences Research Initiative invited students and faculty to drop in for breakfast and open discussion.
On September 15, the Humanities and Social Sciences Research Initiative (HSSRI) hosted its inaugural event, Rise and Research, a drop-in event for students and faculty to socialize over a complementary breakfast.
From 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., event goers mingled on the Maanjiwe nendamowinan building’s fifth-floor south terrace. Perched high above the bustle of people moving past North Field, the sunny venue accommodated de-stressers and easygoing conversations.
About 30 people attended Rise and Research in total, most being first-years excited to make connections. The event also attracted six professors, some of whom trickled in from the adjacent Department of English & Drama.
Professor Chester Scoville, for example, fielded questions about his multivarious course offerings, which range from first-year courses about writing to upper-year courses about fantasy literature, medieval drama, and comics.
>> NEW RESEARCH CLUB continues on page 03
What’s New at the RAWC
Tyler Medeiros Contributer
Interviewing Francesca Del Prado, UTM Sports Program Assistant, regarding new sports offerings and the great opportunity working at the RAWC is for students.
O
n September 11, I sat down with Francesca Del Prado, Sports Program Assistant for UTM Intramurals. I was interested in getting an inside perspective on the great experience working at the Recreation, Athletics and Wellness Centre (RAWC) can be for students. I also learned about the new sports that the RAWC is offering this year, as well as Francesca’s favourite memory working with the organization.
Francesca Del Prado’s role with the RAWC
“My role is a Sports Program Assistant for UTM Intramurals. I have been in this position for the past two years now, and I have just entered my fourth year,” said Del Prado. >>
The Legacy of Filmmaker Rob Stewart
Aqeel Shahid Ullah Contributer
Examining the two most well known films of activist Rob Stewart and their impact on the public
At a time when students are becoming more aware of social issues, the works of filmmakers who have dedicated their careers to such cases have become increasingly relevant. One such filmmaker is the late Rob Stewart, a Canadian filmmaker and activist who dedicated his craft to reporting on the delicate balance of natural ecosystems and the dangers that threatened it. His most well-known films, Sharkwater (2006) and Revolution (2013) have impacts that can still be felt even years after their release.
Rob Stewart was born and raised in Toronto, where he found his passion for underwater photography when he was still a young teenager. After becoming a scuba instructor and graduating
with a BSc in Biology, he went on to travel across the world as the lead photographer for the Canadian Wildlife Federation, a non-profit organization committed to protecting Canada’s wildlife and natural environments. Stewart spent many hours documenting the conditions of the most remote underwater locations on the planet, with his pictures being highly desired by the media worldwide.
During a particular job in the Galapagos Islands, Stewart found instances of illegal fishing that were haphazardly killing sharks inside the reserve. He attempted to spread awareness through the press but after a discouraging response from the public, he decided to take matters into his own hands by producing a film about the effects of shark hunting. Stewart went on an incredible expedition that took him to 12 countries over the course of 4 years, resulting in the release of Sharkwater in 2006.
>> ROB STEWART continues on page 09
Photo by Aaron Calpito
02 News
U of T partners with Nissan to innovate research on electric mobility
Mashiyat Ahmed Contributer
The novel partnership strengthens U of T’s commitments to a net-zero future.
On August 26, the University of Toronto (U of T) signed a multi-year partnership with Nissan North America to collaborate and accelerate research on electric mobility. Nissan will be working with the Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering’s Electric Vehicle (UTEV) Research Centre and the Climate Positive Energy Initiative’s Grid Modernization Centre (GMC). The partnership was facilitated by Climate Positive Energy, U of T’s strategic initiative on empowering responsible energy transitions.
The signing ceremony took place at Hart House. Attendees included U of T Professor Timothy Chan, Associate Vice-President of Strategic Initiatives, and Atsushi Teraji, General Manager of EV Systems Laboratory at Nissan Motor Corp in Japan.
The main goal of this partnership is to accelerate the commercialization of electrical solutions in a sustainable and socially responsible manner. According to U of T News, by cross-collaborating with industry and academic faculty—including student researchers, specialized labs, and other design teams—this partnership will help optimize “charging and real-time energy management across electric vehicles, homes and the grid, laying the groundwork for a virtual power plant model” that is more efficient and consumer-conscious.
This partnership is the latest development in U of T’s global leadership in innovating electrical solutions, clear energy transitions, and overall decarbonization of campus operations.
The UTEV Research Centre is a major contributor to this leadership. Headed by Professor Olivier Trescases, the centre supports the transition to sustainable transportation through researching and building better battery systems, electric vehicle power electronics, semiconductors, and charging infrastructure, which continues to present many challenges for full electrification.
The GMC is also another critical facet of innovative research, solving global climate issues, and achieving Canada’s 2050 net-zero targets. The transition away from fossil fuels and towards more environmentally friendly energy options presents several challenges for grid systems.
Due to the increasing demand and popularity of electric vehicles, grid modernization is a tangible solution to meeting modern-day electricity needs. The GMC engages an ecosystem of stakeholders “to accelerate the integration of clean energy technologies into the grid to ensure Canada smoothly transitions into a decarbonized, decentralized, and digitized” grid infrastructure.
Further, U of T has consistently been ranked as a world leader in sustainability, being named the most sustainable university in the world by the QS World University Rankings Sustainability report in 2025. The Mississauga campus’ growing geothermal and solar energy systems and integration of sustainability education in academia and research are just some of the reasons for U of T’s overall ranking.
The University’s recent partnership with Nissan is a part of a larger systems-wide initiative to make U of T climate positive by 2050. In UTSG’s Carbon and Energy Master Plan, U of T outlines three goals to transform sustainability infrastructure, which involves building resilient systems to support carbon reduction by rethinking how the campus produces, distributes, and consumes energy.
Supporting cleaner electrification efforts is an important step for a sustainable future—but it’s not the only one. According to “Bound to Big Oil: U of T and Its Ties to the Fossil Fuel Industry,” a report authored by members of Climate Justice UofT, financial transparency and reform surrounding fossil fuels divestment, greater student representation, and a more holistic, justice-centred approach are areas that U of T can significantly improve on.
Editor | Aaron Calpito
Photo Credits: Melody Zhou
Illustrated by Melody Zhou
New interdisciplinary research club hosts inaugural event
(contd. from page 01)
Aaron Calpito News Editor
Meanwhile, Professor Maykal Bailey chatted with students about his journey to becoming a sociology instructor.
In addition to an array of drinks and baked goods from campus catering, the event featured board and card games to encourage engagement. Many attendees also enjoyed colouring sheets featuring HSSRI’s mascot, Doc Croc, “the somewhat famished crocodile.”
As the terrace started to empty, HSSRI Executive Chair Darrion Singh and ViceChair of Social Sciences Mehar Fatima sat down for an interview with The Medium to discuss the event and their club.
We’re all in this together
The founding executives explained that they want HSSRI to act as a bridge between humanities and social sciences students on campus and to facilitate interdisciplinary research and dialogue.
“The overall mission of our initiative is to offer a centralized space for all humanities and social sciences students to meet and connect,” said Singh, a thirdyear history specialist at the University of Toronto Mississauga. “One thing that we’ve noticed is that these disciplines don’t really have a centralized space.”
“[The social sciences and humanities] overlap a lot and they’re often lumped together,” added Fatima, another third-year student specializing in criminology
and minoring in ethics. “But at the same time, there’s [nothing] really promoting that interdisciplinary collaboration.”
Singh also explained that HSSRI wants to bring together ideas and perspectives from different disciplines in academic discussions. “How does a historian see criminal aspects versus a sociologist, or how does a political scientist versus an anthropologist view gender relations? Looking at different topics and themes from multiple angles from any level of study is what we intend to do.”
Singh and Fatima expressed that they hope HSSRI will reach new undergraduates, especially. Reflecting on their experience as LAUNCH leaders for the Centre for Student Engagement, they noted that first- and second-year students are generally interested in pursuing research and joining academic clubs, but many are hesitant to do so or don’t know where to start.
Rise and Research was HSSRI’s first step towards helping those students. “Going to office hours can be intimidating, or if you want to talk in class, there’s always a long line waiting to talk to the professor after the class ends,” Fatima recognized. “At Rise and Research, people talk to each other, they talk to professors, and it’s all very calm.”
Moving forward, Fatima said that HSSRI wants to make Rise and Research a recurring event so the club continues to provide spaces for humanities and social sciences students to connect.
HSSRI is currently recruiting executive associates and general members via Google Form, which can be found on their Instagram page @utm.hssri. They also plan to launch a journal for humanities and social sciences articles by the end of this year.
OnFriday, September 19, at 5:38 p.m., the University of Toronto (U of T) released a community-wide notice through its Alert system via email and message to students, staff, and faculty about “an alleged indecent exposure incident at the UTM Nature Trail.
According to the alert, someone reported to Peel Regional Police that they “saw a man exposing himself on September 18 between 2:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. The man was described as a male, black, between 6 and 6 feet 3, muscular build, shirtless, wearing red shorts, with long hair, possibly dreadlocks.” Police subsequently informed Campus Safety, prompting the campus-wide alert.
“UTM Campus Safety has increased patrols and is helping Peel Regional Police Service in their investigation.” The alert did not specify whether anyone involved in the incident is a member of the UTM community.
The last time a safety alert like this was sent out was on March 21, 2025, when Toronto police arrested a suspect in connection with a homicide investigation at the St. George Campus.
The Medium interviewed students shortly after the alert was sent out.
Samiya Khan, a fourth-year psychology and biology for health sciences double major, said that although she was concerned about the alleged incident, she was pleased with how Campus Safety was handling the situation. “I’m glad that our campus security is giving up-to-date details as things progress, which allows me as a student to feel more alert, calm, and engaged with the matter.”
She especially commended the promptness of the most recent alert, as she felt that the University had taken too long to alert students about dangerous incidents in the past. “We need to be made aware, as things like these are
Trung La, a fifth-year international student double majoring in political science and philosophy, said he wasn’t very surprised by the alert. “In my experience, schools are always bound to contain weirdos of different stripes.”
He also said that the incident hasn’t changed how safe he feels on campus. “In my years at UTM, I haven’t seen enough weird things to judge it as a systematic fault that makes me feel more unsafe. As long as the hows and whys get solved and the campus does its best to stop a repeat, I don’t mind.”
Leen, a student who saw the alert while busing out of campus Friday evening, also said she wasn’t very concerned. “At first, I was a little scared because I thought the alert was about me personally.” She expressed that she’s glad the alleged incident seems to be isolated. “I honestly didn’t know that we even had a nature trail.”
The UTM Nature Trail runs through the woods to the north and east of campus from Lislehurst to the P4 parking lot. It connects to Erindale Park via Culham Trail.
Aaron Calpito News Editor
Photo by Aaron Calpito
04 Opinion
Sacrifice your drink, save the planet!
Erin Sauve Contributor
What our attitude towards soggy and limp paper straws tells us about sacrifice.
In 2022, Canada introduced a ban on single-use plastics in most commercial settings. This meant no more plastic cutlery, checkout bags, straws, and more. Fortunately for Canadians, this ban also introduced a hot new topic of conversation that can conveniently be discussed at patios and cafés across the nation: paper straws.
I underestimated how much conversation material the topic of paper straws would offer. Besides the typical “I hate how it turns into wet, limp, mash after a few sips” stuff, we can discuss whether they are actually better for the environment, or how they reinforce the idea that climate destruction is caused by and can be solved by the actions of individuals. Or, if you’re Pierre Poilievre, you can talk about how paper straws are “about punishing all of us to make [the Liberals] feel good.”
Paper straws are whipping up a frenzy that seems entirely disproportionate to the significance that straws hold in our society and the amount of anguish a soggy straw could possibly cause. I can think of two possible explanations for this:
I underestimated the significance of straws in our society. Maybe straws are satiating some kind of psychosexual oral fixation à la Sigmund Freud; And the frenzy surrounding paper straws is not just about the straws but, about more insidious issues.
I’m going to discuss my second explanation—mostly because I think it’s the more correct explanation, but also because I am unqualified and completely unwilling to discuss the first point.
As one sucks on a rapidly disintegrating straw, I think that we can’t help but to think: is it worth it? Here I am, mash straw in my drink, while 57 companies are linked to 80% of all global greenhouse emissions since 2016.
Most Canadians believe that the government and businesses aren’t doing enough to combat climate change. While companies raze rainforests, exploit water supplies, and our government eyes a new pipeline, a single-use plastic ban feels insincere and might appear as an example of greenwashing. I think that it’s easy to feel that maybe the small misery of the paper straw is actually quite large compared to the dent in plastic pollution it is making.
More importantly, people generally don’t like having their things taken away from them. Although a store’s provision of plastic straws doesn’t belong to the customer, it’s something that many people have become accustomed to and have developed a certain entitlement to. Living in one of the richest countries in the world in an era of mass production, I think that millions of Canadians feel entitled to goods and services like fresh strawberries in the winter and Amazon next-day delivery. Again, maybe it’s just natural for people to cause a stink when their goodies are taken away.
Many believe that revolutions occur because of material conditions. A major part of such material is poor living conditions. For example, people rallied around Vladimir Lenin’s cry: “peace, land, and bread” in 1917: a response to dissatisfaction of war in Europe, conditions under landlords, and widespread hunger.
Activists James and Grace Lee Boggs suggest that “the revolution to be made in the United States will be the first revolution in history to require the masses to make material sacrifices rather than to acquire more material things.” Furthermore, they assert that these material things are acquired through the ongoing exploitation of many of the world’s people. That is, in the fight to improve the lives of people around the world, it’s necessary for those in the imperial core to lose access to certain things, even if that means a dip in quality of life.
However, James Boggs notes that people are often unwilling to make these sacrifices in fighting for a cause and “would rather sacrifice the issue.” People typically don’t fight for a cause where they lose things and stand to gain almost nothing. Yet,
The month of Veganuary
Erin Sauve Contributor
What we eat matters—not just for personal health, but for the planet.
January is a special month, where every year thousands of people participate in Veganuary: a global campaign that encourages folks to experiment with veganism for a whole month. Since its launch in the UK in 2014 as a charity campaign, the movement has expanded worldwide, with participants pledging to give up meat, dairy, and other animal products.
For many, Veganuary feels as much like a lifestyle-changing-trend as a dietary shift. Social media platforms buzz with photos of oat-milk lattes, kale salads, and colorful smoothie bowls. Major brands launch vegan versions of burgers and ice creams, which are then shared by influencers with recipe hashtags such as #PlantPower and #Veganuary. As BBC Good Food points out, plant-
this is exactly what is required of us to fight climate change.
Efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, plastic pollution, and other eco-ills come at the cost of a decrease in quality of life in Canada. There would be unemployment, supply chain problems, and probably no straws at all. On top of all of that, we probably won’t even be able to see much of the results: there’s a latency between when a greenhouse gas is released and when we most acutely feel its effects. Even if we all converted to a monastic, eco-conscious life, we would probably continue to observe a worsening climate for decades.
Dramatically decreasing your quality of life without the chance to reap the rewards is certainly a hard sell. The elimination of single-use plastics is the tiniest of baby steps, and even after three years many people remain unconvinced. I’m doubtful that we’ll see much comprehensive decision making from the Canadian government that puts the environment over profit.
In the meantime, however, sacrifices are being made on our behalf; sacrifices of things that truly do belong to us: a clean, safe environment, access to food and water, peace. Get ready.
Illustrated by Shannon Wong
based diets are celebrated for lowering cholesterol, improving overall health, and reducing environmental strain.
For some, Veganuary sparks a permanent lifestyle change; for others, it’s more of a seasonal challenge—like Dry January—that provides a sense of accomplishment and a chance to signal environmental awareness.
The Environmental Costs of Going Vegan
There’s no doubt that plant-based diets can significantly cut emissions. A recent study by The Guardian found that vegan diets can reduce greenhouse gases by up to 75% compared to diets high in meat and dairy. Vegan diets can also help decrease water pollution, deforestation, and land use tied to industrial livestock farming.
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Yet, experts caution that not all vegan foods are equally “green.” According to BBC Future, almond milk requires massive amounts of water, much of it sourced from drought-prone California. Soy cultivation, another vegan staple, has been linked to deforestation in the Amazon. The ‘darling’ of the vegan toast—avocados—rack up emissions from long-distance transport.
In other words, while a switch to veganism reduces the environmental toll of animal agriculture, the sudden spike in demand for certain crops has created its own set of sustainability issues.
Monocropping reduces biodiversity, rising global demand inflates food prices, and communities in the Global South often face the consequences of resource exploitation.
Beyond the Western Vegan Narrative
The Western narrative is where Veganuary’s story becomes more complicated—and more revealing. While this might be a campaign framed in Western countries as a novel solution to the climate crisis, plant-based eating has been a part of daily life in many regions for centuries.
For centuries, vegetarianism has been observed as a cultural and religious practice in South Asia. Foods made with lentils, beans, rice, and seasonal vegetables have nourished populations with a low environmental footprint. Similarly, in West Asia and regions in Africa, plant-forward diets centered on grains, legumes, and locally grown produce have fed generations with nutritious and sustainable meals.
However, in the more global debates about climatefriendly diets, such traditions rarely get any attention. Rather, Western institutions treat veganism almost like a new invention, ignoring cultures in the Global South that have contributed far less to climate change and practicing forms of sustainable eating much before it became a vogue.
As some would say, not-so-ironic here: the very countries that push veganism as a moral and environmental necessity are perhaps some of the biggest pollution emitters on this planet.
By sidelining indigenous and cultural practices, the mainstream vegan narrative risks becoming another example of “green colonialism,” where solutions are framed through Western perspectives, while ignor
ing more effective, community-based approaches assumed by indigenous cultures. Recognizing these traditions is not just a matter of cultural respect—it highlights models of sustainability that are already proven and could be more widely adapted.
Trend or a Pathway?
So, is veganism a social media challenge or is it actually saving our environment? The reality likely rests somewhere between two schools of thoughts. While shifting to a plant-based diet does have health benefits and lower emissions impacts on the environment, nutrition cannot do anything about the larger structural causes of climate change: fossil fuels, industrial excess, and unsustainable consumption.
Veganism prompts people to think about their eating habits and their connection to the ecology, Veganuary is best thought of as a launchpad. Some people may use Veganuary as a launch pad for continued eating changes, while others may use it primarily to raise consciousness. Either way, the campaign reflects growing public recognition that what we eat matters— not just for personal health, but for the planet.
Veganism promotes lies in generating debates, but its limitations are also evident. Cutting off animal products for a month can help reduce one’s carbon footprint, but without structural reforms and recognition of sustainable practices that already exist outside of Western frameworks, the impact still remains modest.
Perhaps the real intent of people choosing to be vegan shouldn’t just be Instagram stories with oat milk lattes, but rather a realization that environmental solutions consist of a lot more than social media hashtags.
By drawing from societies who have practiced sustainable eating for a long time, and placing individual choices within collective policy action, the commitment may change from just a challenge into a serious
Photo by Maria Alampay
Rewriting ecology, indigenously
Mariana Domínguez Rodríguez Contributor
Decolonizing ecology means understanding to Indigenous epistemology
For a long time, we’ve been told one story about the Earth: the Western story. Progress, science, conquest. Land as a resource. Humans as masters. That story came through colonialism. It justified seizing territories, crushing cultures, reshaping nature for profit, and its mindset still drives climate breakdown. But, there has always been another story. The story of Indigenous knowledge. Of people who treat land not as property, but as kin. As some-
thing to live with, not dominate.
What if we started listening? What if Indigenous ways of knowing shaped how we care for this planet? Western ecology loves data, graphs, and objectivity. It tells us what we’ve lost and, perhaps, what we can expect to gain. But it often fails to educate people on how to live differently. It treats land as a thing rather than a relation. Indigenous epistemology does the opposite. It roots itself in respect, in reciprocity. Humans are deeply tied to land, sky, and water. Balance matters. We harvest with care. We regenerate, not exploit.
Think about deliberate fire stewardship. Indigenous people across Turtle Island have used smaller, frequent fires to tend forests, reduce wildlife risk, and promote growth of important plants. A Stanfordled study in 2025 found prescribed burns to reduce wildfire intensity by 16% and pollution by 14%. Meanwhile, capitalism-born of colonial expansionruns on extraction. Growth without limits. Those logics clash with a finite planet.
Decolonizing ecology isn’t about treating Indigenous knowledge as an accessory. It’s not consulting, quoting, then carrying on the same habits. Capitalism developed with colonialism—it depends on taking resources.
Reimagining ecology does not involve simply adding traditional knowledge to existing scientific methods. It isn’t giving advice, listing prices, and then going back to normal. It involved giving people influence. Communities of Indigenous peoples should obtain a primary role, not simply offer suggestions. It involves returning property to its original owners.
In Canada, a David Suzuki Foundation report shows how Indigenous governance restores both land and
Features
ecological health. These actions have real meaning, they are not just for show, and they change depending on the people in charge. Organizations are noticing, however, that they frequently do so without real understanding of Indigenous epistemology. People honor a way of looking at things where ideas of Western knowledge are combined with that of Indigenous knowledge, yet, they continue to value one approach more than the other. To truly set things right it to be modest. It involves facing the past, considering colonialism, the loss of lands, unfair treatment.
It’s also becoming clear that when Indigenous people care for the land, nature handles changes better. A 2024 article in Science Direct documented land-based climate adaptations led by Indigenous communities. Studies in Australia revealed that traditional burning methods lowered bush density, lessening the chance of large fires. Yet, colonization stopped these practices—and bushes are growing more numerous, more prone to wildfires now.
So, what does it mean to create an ecology free from colonial thinking? To me, it means hearing things out initially. Inquiring with Indigenous nations on how they manage their lands, waters, resources and following their own heritage-based traditions. It means fixing up the ground, figuratively and literally, by assuming efforts to return land to Indigenous people, and supporting their governance and customs. It means giving up on the idea of always needing more, taking more, using more. We should create economic systems that respect boundaries instead of constantly trying to go beyond them. It means starting over with connection. Treat Earth like family, not a thing to be sold and traded. It may seem unlikely, though.
Editor
The world’s most environmentally friendly country and how they do it
Zainab Khalil Contributor
In the world’s most sustainable countries, being environmentally friendly is not a policy, but a lifestyle. Let’s dive into how they do it.
Sustainability can look different around the world. In some countries, it’s all about clean energy, while others may focus more on public transport, water systems and education. No two “greenest countries” look the same. Depending on the criteria, such as biodiversity, United Nations (UN) sustainability development goals, or carbon emissions, the rankings of the most sustainable countries may vary.
However, certain countries consistently stay on top of these rankings. Sweden, Denmark and Finland are frequently ranked amongst the world’s most sustain-
able or green nations. This is not because they are perfect in their environmental policies, but rather, speaks to how sustainability is embedded in the design of their cities, the way citizens move around and in the country’s education. Let’s look into what these countries are doing right.
Sweden
To begin with, Sweden has always been a leader in environmental performance. According to AZoCleantech, Sweden is consistently ranked among the top 10 countries worldwide for clean air, water quality, and biodiversity protection. By 2045, the country aims to completely replace fossil fuels with renewable energy through ambitious targets. As of now, most of the public buses in Sweden run on renewable fuels. According to the government of Sweden, this goal was achieved eight years ahead of schedule. But Sweden isn’t stopping here. They are also
Photo by Yasminne Benbderrahmane
implementing other policies, such as increasing the usage of electric cargo bikes for urban deliveries, investing in sustainable housing, and building urban parks and green infrastructure.
Moreover, their universities also play a key role in their sustainability progress, especially in research. According to the government of Sweden, institutes like the Stockholm Environmental Institute and the Stockholm Resilience Center consistently conduct research on climate adaptation and sustainability development. And the data directly informs policy-makers
The use of the Swedish green model, a strategy that integrates business with sustainability, is another reason why Sweden is leading in sustainability policies. With this strategy and their efforts in various aspects, it is no wonder that they can address challenges like extreme weather conditions, while still being able to foster a bioeconomy that turns waste into resources.
Denmark
Denmark is often ranked as the second most sustainable country. Some impressive policies that we can learn from Denmark include their wastewater treatment. According to the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 100 per cent of household water streams are connected to sewer systems and are treated for reuse. Denmark also has the sustainability goal of going carbon neutral by 2050—and they have been working on it by launching their first carbon-neutral shipping vessel in 2023.
Denmark is also a role model in sustainable living. Since 2007, the city of Samso has been 100 per cent sustainable. While many other cities are striving toward this goal by using wind power, solar power and bioenergy to fuel homes and businesses. Citizens in some cities are also adapted to a green way of life. For example, many have replaced oil burners with modern heating and have invested in better home insulation.
From extensive cycling networks to waste reuse programs, green infrastructure is everywhere in Denmark. The country is dedicated to supporting green innovation and climate-smart agriculture, which aligns strongly with the UN Sustainable Development goals.
Finland
Last but not least, Finland is also leading in sustainability. Thanks to the Finn-
ish government’s all-rounded policies and recycling systems, Finland has made huge progress in sustainability.
According to rated power, Finland has launched a national hydrogen roadmap, which aims to produce 10 per cent of the EU’s green hydrogen by 2030. The nation is also investing four billion to meet growing energy demands. Financial aid and tax breaks have also been implemented for solar energy installations, which help with more affordable and greener electricity.
Other than that, Finland has heavily invested in onshore and offshore wind power, solar powers, and hydrogen projects. Institutes are also introducing sustainability education into their educational programs to perfect their green economy. The value of respect for nature is also instilled in the Finnish people, most of whom are living sustainable lifestyles by taking part in proper recycling, using public transport and contributing to the technology of creating a greener society, according to Forbes.
With Finland’s dedication to creating a more environmentally friendly society, it has achieved the lowest non-household electricity prices in the European Union.
These three countries are great examples of how sustainability can be implemented in the government, policies, education and the everyday lives of citizens. They have shown that saving our planet is possible. And with effort, we can all work towards a sustainable future, starting on an individual level by recycling and getting informed.
Your role in environmental issues as a university student
Gisele Tang Feautures Editor
Ever bought something you never used? Think twice next time—your choices can save the planet!
From2002 to 2022, the total amount of solid waste generated in Canada increased by 19 per cent and reached a whopping 36.5 million tonnes, according to Statistics Canada. When it comes to the topic of sustainability, university might not be the first place that comes to mind. However, our actions as university students play a crucial role in transforming various environmental issues.
You might feel like environmental challenges are too big for you to tackle, but that is far from the truth. There are multiple habits that students can adopt to play a significant role in saving and preserving our environment. The easiest and most efficient way to start is by decreasing our waste production.
What is the issue with waste production?
Waste production doesn’t just mean more things are piled up in the landfill. According to Earth Day, a website dedicated to the world’s largest en-
vironmental movement, the most common type of landfill—which accounts for 31 per cent of global landfills—is an open system, which contains various waste forms, including microplastics and toxic chemicals.
These landfills release greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere. According to the National Parks Conservation Association, methane is a huge contributor to climate change and can trap 84 times more heat than carbon dioxide over 20 years. Although methane doesn’t directly contribute to health issues, it does contribute to ground-level ozone, which has been proven as the cause or trigger for breathing problems, heart diseases and cancer.
I won’t go on a tangent about how waste production also contributes to water contamination, pollution, soil pollution and the damage of the ecosystem, because you have probably heard of it a million times. Now, it’s time for us to not only learn about these facts, but to take action.
So, what can you do?
Illustrated by Abigail Han
Illustrated by Sehaj Wander
To tackle these issues, we can start by being more vigilant in our shopping decisions. As a generation that grew up with the convenience of online shopping and amidst constant promotion of trendy products on social media, it is easy to fall into the habit of buying things we don’t actually need or want to keep.
For example, how often do you go on Amazon and order a trendy gadget that you’ve only used twice? How often do you get a new phone case or a new water bottle, just to toss them away for a new one next year?
These products might seem tiny and insignificant to environmental issues. But when each of us accumulates boxes of things that we keep buying and tossing, it adds up quickly. So, do your bank account and the environment a favour by thinking twice before you purchase and asking yourself: is the product actually bringing value to your life, or is it just another reason that people who live close to the landfills are having respiratory problems?
Another habit that we can easily build up is to use reusable bags and utensils. Now, I know this has been repeated many times in many places, but there is a reason that it is still being said: not sufficient action is being taken. If you use disposable coffee cups over twice a week, you are also guilty of this!
While it might seem convenient to use disposable plates to avoid washing dishes, think about this—in 50 years, would the idea still seem appealing when we can’t even breathe clean, fresh air? Would that plastic cup still seem more aesthetically pleasing if our children won’t ever get to see dolphins because dolphins have gone extinct?
Starting as small as bringing a reusable cup for your coffee orders, you can save 80 disposable coffee cups each semester (assuming you are ordering coffee five times a week)! Take that and multiply it by 8,000 (half the number of undergraduate students in the University of Toronto Mississauga)—that is 640,000 coffee cups that our campus alone could have saved in one semester!
As the younger generation, our actions do not only reflect our determination in resolving the environmental crisis - they also represent the respect we have towards our future, our well-being, nature and society.
Each of our actions and decisions today determines whether we will have a future where we still get to enjoy blue skies, swim in a clear ocean and experience the four seasons. Do your future a favour, and start by doing one environmentally friendly thing today.
The Beauty of the UTM Nature Trail
Emma Catarino Contributer
UTM is known for being a campus in the middle of the forest. It’s Nature Trail, which follows the Credit River, is a great way for students to get active and enjoy nature between classes.
As a Toronto resident, I’d originally planned on spending my first year at UTM then transferring to the St George Campus. That changed after my first orientation tour, I was blown away by how lovely and secluded our campus is in the forest. Compared to the hustle and bustle of downtown Toronto, the greenery of our forest campus felt much more peaceful.
The main UTM forest trail is located across from parking lot 9 on Outer Circle, adjacent to the campus’s football field. The trail is approximately 3 kilometers long, with the majority of it overlooking Erindale Park’s Credit River. Though it may not seem obvious at first, the forest is filled with a diverse array of plant and animal species.
Oak, maple, pine and white ash trees make up the majority of the tree species. They are present in all their stages of life, from inches-tall saplings to 15+ meter tall adults. Along the floor of the forest, you’ll find shrubs, acorns, and moss, along with poison ivy in some areas!
The forest floor is also littered with insects like ants, potato bugs, and different species of beetle. It’s also common to find dragonflies, butterflies and bees whirling past you. As for the bird population, you can find a plethora of sparrows, robins, cardinals, crows, and even ducks paddling in the river below.
Lastly, squirrels and chipmunks are fairly common to see climbing up trees, though the forest is also home to raccoons and even the famous UTM deer! Though due to their easily-spooked nature, you’re unlikely to spot them, especially during the daytime.
In the Fall semester especially, the Nature Trail is gorgeous and lively with its differently coloured leaves and the ambience of chirping birds. Though the trail
doesn’t have any park benches for students to sit and study, there are flat spaces where a picnic blanket can be laid down, or fallen logs where students can sit to
read a book. Walking through the forest after a lecture, with the sunlight beaming down and calming environment, is undoubtedly a great way to get exercise and de-stress.
The forest is even used for educational/research purposes. Classes like BIO205 have labs where students will go into different areas of the forest to collect soil and other samples for analysis. Students who are interested in walking/biking the entire trail path can find the map for it online, or by using an app like AllTrails.
The trail is also clearly marked for those who just want to wander, and for those curious about the ecology of the forest can download apps like PlantNet, which can help identify the vegetation species present.
Editor | Yusuf Larizza-Ali arts@themedium.ca
Photo by Kirsty Carnan
Three Informative Environmentalism Documentaries
Skyler Piskoroski Contributer
A look into a few documentaries that effectively illustrate varying environmental issues in Canada and the United States.
Many contributing factors to environmental damage are conducted on a large scale. Banning plastic bags and straws is a minute step towards protecting the environment when big corporations and governments propose pipelines for fossil fuels, polluting the water, while favouring gas, oil, and animal agriculture companies over the land and the people on it. In this vein, the following is a list of films that examine issues of environmentalism across Canada and the USA.
There’s Something in the Water (2019)
There’s Something in the Water (2019) is a film examining the living conditions of black communities in Nova Scotia. Well water in these communities were contaminated, and the correlation between this contamination and increased rates of cancer went unaddressed for years. The film also looks at the Pictou Landing First Nation in Nova Scotia who were also affected by water pollution, and follows their fight against gas companies wishing to dispose of salt brine in their water. In March 2023, a few years after the release of the film, the Canadian government passed a bill to address the issue of environmental racism. There’s Something in the Water (2019) is considered to be a contributing factor to this bill as it helped raise awareness about issues that minority communities face in modern day Canada.
Yintah (2024)
their fight against colonialism in the form of environmental damage and fossil fuel development on Indigenous land. The Wet’suwet’en people have never signed any treaties and have ruled their land in northern British Columbia for thousands of years, and is recognized as theirs by the Supreme Court of Canada in the 1997 Delgamuukw-Gidsaywa case. Despite these rulings, the Canadian government continues to assert jurisdiction over the land by issuing project permits without the consent of the Wet’suwet’en people. They’ve gone as
show how basic necessities and resources, such as water and land, are actively being weaponized in a colonial way against the Indigenous and Black communities of Canada. These films also succeed in showing how although these specific communities are the ones being targeted, they do in fact affect the population as a whole. The projects and pollution occurring in these spaces are ones that affect the environment everywhere and contribute towards climate change.
far as criminalizing and arresting them for exercising their rights to uphold their own law on their own land.
Yintah (2024) is a documentary about the Wet’suwet’en clan and territories in Canada and
Both Yintah (2019) and There’s Something in the Water (2024) illustrate the issue of environmental racism within Canada in the present day. Canada often prides itself on being progressive but this pride is simply attempting to white out the actual problems occurring. The newly instated Truth and Reconciliation Day put forth by the government is only a bandaid, PR solution, as it simply gives government workers the day off of work while Indigenous communities continue to suffer and fight for jurisdiction over their land. Moreover, these films
The Legacy of Filmmaker Rob Stewart
Aqeel Shahid Ullah Contributer
Sharkwater (2006) was a massive success and successfully changed the public perception of sharks, who had long been misunderstood by the general population. People used to see sharks as dangerous killing machines due to films like Jaws (1975) but Stewart’s documentary opposed that narrative by depicting them as a vital species in underwater ecosystems and victims of illegal fishing operations. The film showed the sheer effect of shark finning, which was a multi-billion industry at the time due to demand for shark fin soup. Stewart took great risks to reveal these illegal practices to the public, as he consistently challenged poachers and other illicit groups. For many viewers, Sharkwater (2006) was their first real introduction to sharks as intricate animals in need of conservation. The documentary set off a massive shift, as its release caused multiple countries to enforce bans on shark finning and other illegal fishing operations.
Cowspiracy (2014)
Cowspiracy (2014) looks at the North American animal agriculture industry and its harmful effects on the environment. Factory farming is the leading cause of deforestation, water pollution, and makes up for more greenhouse gas emissions than the transportation industry. Despite these facts, factory farming is rarely mentioned, let alone criticized, in discussions of climate change by leading environmental protection organizations and government bodies. The film dives into specific damages the industry does, as well as analyzes why the meat and dairy industry is rarely present in discussions of environmentalism.
Like the previous films, part of Cowspiracy’s success in conveying its message is its consideration of larger corporations and entities and their impact on the environment. In the context of Canada specifically, there is a disconnect between the government’s banning of single use plastics such as straws and shopping bags and its failure to mention the greater damage done by the animal agriculture industry. While the government and major corporations can give recommendations on how to help the environment, encourage us to recycle, and participate in Earth Day, they are still actively harming the environment and allowing people to
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After Sharwater’s resounding critical and commercial success, Stewart got to work on a follow-up, Revolution (2013), which expands on the premise of Sharkwater (2006), examining greater environmen tal issues such as climate change, ocean acidification and deforestation. Much of the film was shaped by various conversations Stewart had with young activists across the globe. While the film was thor oughly scientific in its detail, it was Stewart’s hopeful attitude that compelled the audience. Stewart understood that the ones leading environmental movements were often students who were confident
Illustrated by Melody Zhou
Illustrated by Aria Zheng
in challenging political leaders or massive corporations. In making the film, Stewart journeyed through continents and chronicled grassroots movements, emphasizing that global change starts with local action first. To Stewart, Revolution (2013) wasn’t just a documentary, but a call to arms, as he personally believed that humanity’s fate relied on people understanding their link with nature and working to protect it. By connecting the state of the environment to the future of humanity itself, Stewart presented environmental conservation not as a small issue but a matter of survival.
Over a decade after its release, Revolution (2013) and its predecessor Sharkwater (2006) continue to be relevant today. Many students see Stewart’s work as a source of inspiration, with his talent for conveying scientific information in an engaging way showing how communication is just as vital as research when
it comes to shifting the public perception. Both movies are typically shown in schools as an example of how art can have tangible positive impacts on the world, demonstrating that creativity can be a strong force for social change. Additionally, Stewart’s personal history also strikes a chord with students, as he was not just some powerful figure, but a person who did what he loved and used his talents as a way to advocate for change.
While filming the sequel to Sharkwater in early 2017, titled Sharkwater: Extinction, Stewart tragically died when he drowned while diving just south of the Florida Keys. The film was then completed by editor Nick Hector and director Sturla Gunnarsson and released at the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival while serving as a tribute to the late Stewart. Although he passed over 8 years ago, his legacy continues to live on through the many students who were inspired to carry on fighting for environmental protection and social change.
10 Sports & Health
What’s New at the RAWC (contd.
Tyler
Contributer
Francesca Del Prado’s role with the RAWC
“My role is a Sports Program Assistant for UTM Intramurals. I have been in this position for the past two years now, and I have just entered my fourth year,” said Del Prado. “I work a good amount of administrative duties, such as registration and preparation of many leagues and tournaments.
I aid in a lot of promotions of all RAWC programming, so I am present a lot during tabling events and events hosted by us in our facilities.”
Francesca plays a crucial role in ensuring that UTM sports run as smoothly and seamlessly as
Editor | Joseph Falzata sports@themedium.ca
from page 01)
possible. “I also provide a supportive role for the other leads and game managers, and referees as I help to try to solve any minor issues that could occur.”
What’s new at the RAWC?
The RAWC is hosting a plethora of new sports to look forward to this year. For UTM Intramurals, new leagues are starting this fall, such as Open and Women’s Flag Football and Beach Volleyball. Women’s Leagues will happen on Wednesday’s which include 3v3 basketball and Women’s badminton,” said Del Prado.
A new introduction to the inclusive sports section is wheelchair basketball, with the muchloved sitting volleyball returning from last year.
If you are looking for something new in the fitness world, the RAWC is now offering pilates reformers and free beginner classes for students. Del Prado mentioned that registration fills up quickly, so register now on the website.
“Lastly, we renovated our Strength and Conditioning Centre. The facility is beautiful, with a strip of turf, more sleds and even cool LED lights when group fitness classes occur.”
Why work at the RAWC?
UTM students looking for an on-campus job should look no further than the RAWC. “It’s a great opportunity for students to work at the RAWC, as you are put into an environment that is super fun but also very supportive of your needs,” said Del Prado.
If you’re worried about your class or extracurricular schedule getting in the way of the possibility of working with the RAWC, don’t be. “I found that working an on-campus job is less stressful because they usually schedule shifts
around your availability, so you don’t feel pressured if you can’t work on a certain day.”
Students who have a passion for sports or sports management should definitely consider working for the RAWC and UTM Sports. Francesca highlighted her passion for sports being the reason why she loves working with the RAWC. “The RAWC also incorporates my passions for sport as it is something I have loved doing since I was a kid.”
Favourite Memory
I asked Del Prado to share her favourite memory working with the RAWC to gain a better insight into some of the benefits and responsibilities of a student job at UTM. “My favourite memory at the RAWC was hosting a collaborative tournament with UTM Intramurals and my student group, UTM CASS (Canadian Asian Student Society).
This tournament brought me joy as it combines both my passion for inclusivity and my passion for sports. I ran this tournament every year I have worked, and this year we are in the process of making more tournaments with other student groups.”
Common and Advanced Student Roles
Through my discussion with Del Prado, she outlined three major departments that the RAWC is made up of. The first being sports—the department Del Prado works in. Within the sports department, there are game managers and referees who work for UTM Intramurals and also the Tri-Campus Day Staff.
Other roles in sports also include Instructors and Inclusion ambassadors who act as leaders in providing instruction on sports.
Medeiros
Photo by Francesca Del Prado
The fitness department at the RAWC is offering a new student role titled Fitness Facilitator. “In the fitness department, we also have facility staff who are at the core of every RAWC programming as they do an amazing job setting up and taking down efficiently,” said Del Prado.
The third department at the RAWC is the aquatics team. There are a
variety of student jobs in this department, including pool supervisors, swim instructors, and lifeguards.
If you’re interested in employment opportunities with the RAWC, check out the link: https://www.utm.utoronto.ca/athletics/about-us/employment-opportunities!
Will global warming kill sports or will sports kill the environment?
Maram Qarmout Contributer
Understanding how global warming is affecting the sports playfield and vice versa.
From summer to winter, to spring and fall, there isn’t a season where sports aren’t readily available for viewers to watch. But for student athletes, will there always be enough of a season for them to train and compete in?
The effect of global warming on sports
Ever since pre-industrialization, the fossil-fueled nature of our activities have caused a rise in greenhouse gas levels that warm our earth beyond acceptable levels. In turn, competitions are too hot to compete in, ice nears extinction, and athletes (in some cases) lose their purpose.
In 2018, the US Tennis Association introduced an “extreme heat policy”
after many athletes struggled with rising temperatures over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Although far from where student athletes may be competing, the policy speaks of the struggles athletes may face in the future as temperatures continue to rise, swallowing them in an endless loop of dehydration, constant game intermissions, and in some circumstances, heat strokes.
With a continuously warming earth, many necessary climates for winter games are disappearing. With less snow and ice, skaters, snowboarders, hockey players, and many other winter-sport athletes are losing the environment they need to train and compete.
They are left to face the reality of either giving up the sport or continuing in ways that may only harm the environment—the creation of facilities that will support them in turn for more carbon dioxide being emitted.
On the other hand, the fall of one season gives rise to longer periods of others. While there might be less ice, there will be longer summers, perfect for runners, swimmers, and many other summer-sport athletes to train and perfect their talents. Even non-athletes can enjoy the prolonged summers to exercise and spend more time outdoors.
The effect of sports on global warming
For every hockey stick, bike, bat, boat, ski, racquet, or net used, students fail to realize that once it’s worn out, it’s left to rot for decades on end in landfills. Although the materials of such equipment are strong and light, they are not recyclable, and at times, a simple tear can deem it unsafe for consumption, forcing an early retirement to landfills.
While some athletic gear is recyclable, such as clothes and shoes, just as many are made from polyester. Polyester is a material that eases the discomfort of sweat for athletes, but is also difficult to recycle , again leaving it to pile up in landfills or to be burned, emitting more greenhouse gases.
It’s uncertain the permanent effect sports will have on the environment and vice versa. There might be longer summers for track and field athletes, but will our air be clean enough to counter the heat and health risks? Only time
