The Residence Sustainability Enhancement Fund (RSEF) provides students living in residence at UBC Vancouver with funding for grassroots projects that support sustainability and climate action education and behaviours in our residence communities—and ultimately contribute to a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Through this fund, students can submit proposals for projects aimed at reducing UBC Student Housing’s operational greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 100% in the year 2035, a target in UBC’s Climate Action Plan 2030.
Projects can be any size or scope, but they must be climate/sustainability-themed and specific to student housing at UBC Vancouver.
Suggested project areas
Examples of project areas you might consider for your funding proposal.
Waste reduction and recycling initiatives
Projects focused on reducing the amount of waste generated in residence, improving recycling practices and promoting the responsible disposal of materials.
Sustainable food practices
Projects that promote environmentally responsible food production, consumption and waste management, focusing on reducing the carbon footprint of food systems.
Education and awareness campaigns
Projects that aim to raise awareness and educate the residence community on sustainability topics, influencing behavior change and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.
Behaviour change initiatives
Projects that encourage individuals to adopt more sustainable habits and practices, focusing on reducing energy and resource consumption through behaviour modification.
Green spaces and urban gardening
Projects that enhance the environmental quality of living spaces through the development of green areas, gardens or natural landscapes, contributing to carbon sequestration and biodiversity.
Technology and innovation
Projects leveraging technology to create new solutions for sustainability challenges, often involving energy monitoring, optimization or the development of eco-friendly systems.
All about the fund
Who can apply?
The RSEF is open to students living in student housing, operated by UBC Student Housing and Community Services (SHCS), on UBC’s Vancouver Campus.
What is the application timeline?
Applications are welcome each year during the following period.
- Applications open: Early-November
- Application deadline: January 31
How much funding is available?
The total pool of funding available in the RSEF is $10,000 CAD.
How much can I apply for?
Students can apply for any amount up to the total fund value of $10,000 CAD for their project.
Applying for a lower or higher amount does not increase or decrease your chances of receiving funding. All applications will be assessed based on the quality of the project.
Projects may be approved at a higher (maximum $10,000) or lower value than what was applied for, depending on the adjudication results and how many projects are awarded funding.
How do I apply?
Apply online between early November and January 31 each year. We’ll post a link on this page once the application period goes live.
When will I find out the results?
We’ll let all applicants know about the results of their applications by the end of February.
When do projects need to take place?
The project implementation timeline is flexible, based on the requirements of your individual project.
Evaluation criteria
Applications will be reviewed based on the following criteria. All projects must involve actions or activities that take place on residence property.
Impact on greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs)
The degree to which the project directly or indirectly reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Projects should offer measurable and significant reductions in emissions, either through energy efficiency, waste reduction or other mechanisms.
Feasability
The practicality of implementing the project within the given timeframe, budget, and available resources.
Proposals should demonstrate a clear plan, including logistics, timelines, and cost estimates, and should be realistic for students and the institution to carry out.
Innovation and creativity
The originality and ingenuity of the project in addressing sustainability challenges.
Projects should introduce new approaches, leverage emerging technologies or creatively solve sustainability problems may be more impactful and engaging.
Educational value
The potential of the project to raise awareness and educate the residence community about sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions.
Projects should engage students in learning about sustainability, whether through workshops, campaigns or demonstration projects.
Scalability and replicability
The potential for the project to be expanded or replicated in other areas of campus or beyond.
Projects should be able to grow over time, be implemented in other residences or areas of campus, or inspire similar projects that will have a lasting impact.
Long-term sustainability
The ability of the project to maintain its benefits and impact over time without requiring significant ongoing resources.
Projects that offer long-term solutions with minimal maintenance or continued input will provide lasting value and sustainability.
Student engagement and collaboration
The degree to which the project involves and engages other students, stakeholders, or groups on campus.
Projects that foster teamwork, student leadership, and collaboration across different areas of campus life will have broader participation and community support.
Cost-effectiveness
The balance between the project’s costs and its expected environmental and educational benefits.
Proposals should show that they deliver strong sustainability outcomes relative to the budget allocated, maximizing value for the available funds.
Measurability of outcomes
The ability to track and assess the success of the project in achieving its goals, particularly in terms of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Projects should include metrics or systems for measuring progress and success, such as energy savings, waste reduction or other quantifiable environmental impacts.
Alignment with campus sustainability goals
How well the project aligns with the university’s existing sustainability goals, policies and initiatives.
Projects that contribute to broader institutional sustainability objectives, such as carbon neutrality goals or waste reduction targets, should be prioritized.
Questions?
If you have any questions about the Residence Sustainability Enhancement Fund, please reach out to us at residence.life@ubc.ca.
Explore additional funding opportunities
Explore additional climate and sustainability funding opportunities available across UBC.