The Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB) is continuing to highlight the seven focus areas of our Sustainability & Climate Action Plan (2025–2030). This month, we’re focusing on Procurement.
Procurement means the products and services we buy and use every day, including classroom supplies, technology, furniture, and other materials used in schools and board buildings.
The choices we make about what we buy, use, and reuse can have a big impact on the environment.
Why procurement matters
Every product has a journey. Materials are collected, products are made and shipped, and eventually items are thrown away or recycled. Thoughtful purchasing choices can help:
Reduce waste and greenhouse gas emissions
Support more environmentally responsible products and companies
Encourage reuse and reduce unnecessary consumption
Help students learn about responsible environmental choices
Small everyday decisions can add up to meaningful change.
What UGDSB is doing
Across the district, UGDSB is working to support more sustainable purchasing practices by:
Encouraging reusable and durable products where possible
Reducing unnecessary waste and single-use materials
Thinking about the full lifecycle of products, including how items are used and disposed of
Supporting sustainability awareness and learning in schools and classrooms
Exploring environmentally responsible purchasing practices across the board
These efforts help reduce environmental impact while supporting healthy, sustainable learning environments.
How families can help
Families can support sustainable habits at home in many simple ways:
Reuse school supplies when possible
Choose reusable water bottles, lunch containers, and bags
Reduce paper use and print only when needed
Repair or repurpose items instead of replacing them right away
Talk together about how purchasing choices affect the environment
These conversations help students build lifelong habits that support sustainability.
Student learning and leadership
Students across UGDSB may explore sustainability and responsible consumption through classroom learning, environmental initiatives, and student-led projects. These opportunities help students understand how everyday choices connect to larger environmental goals.
Together, students, families, and staff can make thoughtful choices that help build a more sustainable future.