Sheridan e-waste diversion strategy cuts 80 tonnes of carbon dioxide

Which of Sheridan’s departments helped save the environment from the impact of 65 nation-wide flights and the e-waste weight of 41 polar bears? The answer may surprise you. 

Over the last year, Sheridan's Information Technology (IT) department made great strides in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by managing old equipment in an eco-friendly way, while also helping the college’s campus communities. In fact, Sheridan was able to repurpose nearly 900 assets in 2023, including donating 30 desktop computers to a local area high school, providing essential resources to students. 

"At Sheridan, our commitment to sustainability is a strategic priority and guiding principle that informs all our actions. The IT department’s efforts in repurposing and recycling old equipment have resulted in significant environmental benefits while also supporting our campus communities and local education partners,” said Richard Godsmark, Sheridan’s Chief Information Officer. “By diverting nearly 900 assets from landfills and providing essential learning tools to students, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also promoting a culture of environmental stewardship and social responsibility. This initiative demonstrates how technological advancements and eco-friendly practices can come together to create positive and meaningful change." 

Sustainability is a key pillar of Sheridan’s strategic plan with a focus on enhancing learner experiences while addressing environmental challenges. IT is supporting this goal by reducing environmental impact through a focus on recycling and reusing electronic devices. 

Over 2023, Sheridan’s IT department supported a total carbon dioxide reduction of 80 tonnes. 

What is 80 tonnes of carbon dioxide comparable to? 

• 560 trees being planted and grown for a decade. 
• 248 cars being removed from the roads for a year.
• 65 flights between Victoria and St. John’s being avoided.  

In total, 32,252 pounds (approximately 14,630 kg) of resources, including plastic, glass, circuit boards and aluminum, were recovered through IT’s recycling initiatives. Diverting e-waste conserves natural resources and mitigates the environmental impact. The work by the IT team to divert e-waste was equal in weight to: 

• Four Zambonis 
• 41 polar bears (or 50 of Bruno’s brown bear cousins!)
• 574 canoes 

Beyond recycling, Sheridan is committed to reusing electronic devices, further enhancing its sustainability footprint. A total of 870 assets were repurposed in 2023: 

• Desktops: 333 units 
• Laptops: 336 units 
• Flat panel displays: 177 units 
• Others (including servers): 24 units 

Sheridan donated 30 desktop computers to a local area high school, providing essential resources to students and enhancing their learning experience. Additionally, the resale of older devices generated over $100,000, which in turn allowed the institution to purchase 64 brand new standard laptops.  

Sheridan's IT strategy to divert e-waste and focus on sustainability aligns with the institution's long-term goals, set out by both the strategic plan and its Mission Zero commitment. By properly managing e-waste and reducing the environmental impact, the college is ensuring a healthier planet for its learners and future generations.