Sustainability Action For the Environment

The Sustainability Action For the Environment (SAFE) Fund (the "Fund") was established by students and staff of Royal Roads University to promote environmental education and action. Funding sources include students, staff and off-campus donors such as alumni, who donate to the fund based in part on the carbon emissions associated with their transportation to and from campus for work, classes or residencies.

Spirit and Purpose of Fund

The idea started when Charles Krusekopf, Program Head, MA/MSc in Environment and Management, had a goal to make the Masters in Environment and Management Residency 2007 carbon neutral through programs to offset the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions created by student travel to the residency. With 150 students, one residency would create an estimated 100-150 tonnes of GHG emissions. Attendees of the residency used carbon calculators to estimate the emissions generated by their travel, and then made donations to the Fund based on a rate of $25 per tonne of carbon created. Approximately $2,500 was donated as a result, a figure matched by the RRU Foundation. These funds allowed for the creation of the SAFE Fund.

The Fund will support projects led by RRU students, staff or alumni aimed at reducing environmental impacts. Projects might include energy efficiency upgrades, alternative energy initiatives, ecosystem restoration, recycling initiatives, transportation planning or other projects. The Fund is not intended as a full carbon offset program as it will consider a wide variety of environmental projects and not only projects that reduce GHGs.

Use of the Fund

The fund is managed by the SAFE Committee which is comprised of a minimum of three members representing faculty, students and the RRU Foundation. The committee's responsibilities include developing guidelines and procedures for funded projects. Initial funds are restricted, but the committee may determine to endow funds in the case of a substantial donation or fund balance.

How Can I Participate?

RRU welcomes contributions to the fund from students, faculty, staff, alumni and anyone who wants to support campus sustainability.  Donations to the Foundation may be made online through the website.  Choose the Academic and Innovation option and indicate Sustainability Action for the Environment Fund #666 in the comments field.  Alternatively, donors may complete and mail in a pledge form.