Eco-friendly Édouard-Montpetit leads the 2015 Class of Innovators

Édouard-Montpetit, already a provincial leader in the practices of composting and recycling on campus, increased their efforts to coincide with the National Championship. Waste management and buying local were key components of the host’s campaign to present an environmentally responsible event.

“I am really pleased that Édouard-Montpetit has been recognized with this prestigious award and hope that these ‘green’ endeavors will continue at future CCAA Championships,” said Steve Shaw, Athletic Director at John Abbott College, which hosted an eco-friendly Men’s Basketball National Championship in 2013.

During the Women’s Volleyball National Championship in Longueuil, QC, food supplies were locally sourced, all lunch box packaging were made from recyclable materials and all food waste was composted.

“We are honoured to receive this award,” said Catherine Hurteau, Athletic Director at the Cégep. “Our institution is committed to sustainability and the many efforts we have made in this area over the past year have now been rewarded.”

Souvenir “Eco-cups”, branded with the National Championship logo, were created for the event and distributed to spectators, athletes, coaches, referees, volunteers and members of the organizing committee.

The reusable “Eco-cups” replaced the need for disposable coffee or water cups and special water stations were set up to allow attendees to clean and refill their cups. The Cégep also donated proceeds from their recycling efforts to scholarships for students in need. “This great innovation promoted eco-friendly options to all student-athletes as well as reducing the footprint left by such a big event,” said Véronique Champoux, VP Sport Development.

“This innovation also gave the athletes the opportunity to go home with useful, reusable souvenir.”

The Innovation Award recognizes a CCAA member institution that has developed an initiative that demonstrates unique marketing, communication or technological advances in its athletic program. The Innovation Award will be presented at the CCAA’s Hall of Fame Banquet in Fredericton, NB.

Other candidates for the 2015 CCAA Innovation Award included: