Halton Region has partnered with the University of Waterloo’s Sustainability and Social Entrepreneurship Fellowship Program to explore ideas for a more sustainable future and to inspire the next generation of climate leaders.
Setting the Stage for Innovation
Our work together began at the Pearl Sullivan Engineering IDEAs Clinic (external link), where students met with Andrew Farr, Halton Region’s Chief Administrative Officer and the 2024–2025 Douglas Wright Engineer-in-Residence (external link). Andrew introduced the students to Halton’s services, priorities, and climate-forward goals — and presented them with real-world challenges to tackle through interdisciplinary teamwork.
To deepen their understanding, students visited several of Halton’s key infrastructure sites:
- Biosolids Management Centre
- Mid-Halton Wastewater Treatment Plant
- Halton Regional Centre
- Paramedic Services Woodlands Operation Centre
These tours offered a behind-the-scenes look at how Halton is integrating sustainability into essential services — from wastewater treatment to emergency response.
Check out the tours in action on the @regionofhalton Instagram (external link)!
Student Solutions for a Greener Halton
After weeks of research and collaboration, the students returned to Halton to present their innovative solutions. Each project addressed a real challenge with a focus on climate action, including:
- Mitigating emissions from wastewater treatment processes
- Retrofitting corporate buildings to boost energy efficiency
- Prioritizing deconstruction over demolition to reduce construction waste and support a circular economy
- Designing solar systems with integrated energy storage
These proposals reflect the students’ creativity, fresh perspectives, and commitment to building a more sustainable future.
A Model for Collaboration
This partnership, part of Halton’s Corporate Climate Action Plan (PDF file), demonstrates the power of collaboration between local government and academic institutions. By engaging students in real-world challenges, Halton is not only supporting climate innovation but also helping shape the leaders of tomorrow.
Learn more about our commitment to Climate Action:
- Halton Regional Climate Dashboard (external link)
- 2024 Progress Report on Halton’s Corporate Climate Action Plan (PDF file)
- Halton’s Corporate Climate Action Plan (PDF file)
- Climate Change and the Environment
- Follow @regionofhalton on X (Twitter), Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.