Sustainable Research
Paper, plastic, mushrooms
McMaster University researchers have demonstrated how natural genetic variations in the split gill mushroom can be used to develop biodegradable alternatives to plastic, fabric, and packaging materials. Led by Biology professor Jianping Xu and former engineering student Viraj Whabi, the team bred new strains of the mushroom to produce mycelium-based materials with tailored properties—ranging from soft and pliable to strong and water-resistant.
This innovative work directly supports McMaster’s commitment to advancing sustainability through research that addresses global environmental challenges. By exploring nature-based solutions to reduce reliance on harmful synthetic materials, the project exemplifies how McMaster fosters interdisciplinary learning and discovery to create a more sustainable future.
The study, published in the Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts, highlights the potential of fungi as a scalable, eco-friendly resource for industries seeking greener alternatives
Connection to the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Interdisciplinary Learning
‘There are always ways to bring in sustainability to everything’: Lessons from an ecology internship
Alexandra Chow, a first-year Arts & Science student at McMaster University, pursued an internship with MiON Forest Inc., a startup focused on innovative reforestation technologies. Passionate about sustainability and climate justice since childhood, Chow transitioned from advocacy work to exploring the scientific side of climate action.
Through Experience Ventures at McMaster’s Forge incubator, she joined MiON Forest, which develops biodegradable planting pots and drone-based tree planting systems. As an ecology intern, Chow created a comprehensive plan for MiON’s Newcastle research site, including species selection, planting density, spatial layout, budgeting, and mapping.
Her internship provided hands-on experience in reforestation science and involved outreach to industry partners, leading to interviews with seven companies in the field.
Sustainable Development Goals
Campus as a living laboratory
McMaster takes another step toward campus decarbonization with federal support
McMaster receives $1.42 million from the Government of Canada’s Low Carbon Economy Fund for two major emissions-saving projects: the nuclear reactor Heat Recovery Project and the Air-Source Heat Pump Project.
The nuclear reactor Heat Recovery Project will capture excess heat from McMaster’s research nuclear reactor and redirect it to heat the A.N. Bourns Science Building, significantly reducing the building’s natural gas consumption and related emissions. It is planned to be implemented by the end of 2025.
The Air-Source Heat Pump Project will replace natural gas heating in the Campus Services Building and the Applied Dynamics Lab with air-to-water heat pumps, cutting emissions by reducing reliance on fossil fuels. It should also be implemented by the end of 2025.
Collectively, these initiatives have the power to reduce overall campus emissions by approximately 1,526 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually
Connection to the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Digital Learning and Environment
Digital learning: In the hybrid classroom, tech meets teaching — and enhances it
With all the recent, rapid development in tech, along with an increased demand for remote learning opportunities, McMaster has a plan to integrate innovative technology into the classroom to support student learning and accessibility. The Digital Learning Strategic Framework is reimagining classrooms like KTH-104, where tracking cameras, smart mics and hybrid teaching turn lectures into dynamic, shared spaces, to genuinely engage students learning in person and remotely.
Sustainable Development Goals
Campus Sustainability Month Events
*NEW DATE October 23 – LEED Building Walk and Talk Tour
Take a behind-the-scenes look at McMaster’s most sustainable spaces with Facility Services’ Project Director Laurie Nelson and Director of Sustainability Dave Cano.
This one-hour guided walk and talk will uncover the innovative features of our LEED-certified buildings and reveal how each contributes to a greener, more efficient campus. Whether you’re curious about green roofs, energy-saving systems, or sustainable design, this tour offers a unique opportunity to see sustainability in action and ask questions directly to the experts who helped bring these buildings to life.
Advance sign-up is required. Please dress appropriately for the weather. If you have any accessibility needs, please contact facilities@mcmaster.ca
Tour Schedule
11:30 a.m. – Meet at the University Avenue entrance to the new Learning and Discovery Greenhouse.
Stop #1: The new Learning and Discovery Greenhouse (20 minutes)
Stop #2: Exterior of new McLean Centre for Learning and Discovery (5 minutes)
Stop #4: The HUB Lobby (20 minutes)
Information Box Group
October 16 at 12 p.m. - Nature at Mac Walking Tour Sign-up here
Join us on a hike through the west end of campus, stopping at focal ecological sites along the way, where you will see views of the creek and ongoing research and conservation. During the hike, our staff are eager to tell you about our restoration efforts.
Please be sure to be prepared for weather conditions, including muddy trails (wear shoes that you won’t mind getting dirty, as well as being comfortable, closed-toe, durable shoes). We also recommend wearing long pants and long socks to keep ticks and poison ivy from coming into contact with your skin. Bring water, sunscreen, and bug spray as needed, as well as sunglasses and a hat. The hike is of easy to moderate difficulty depending on experience, with a few hills, but we will be sure to take lots of breaks!
Hike starts outside the College Crescent entrance to Mary E. Keyes Residence building at 12 p.m.
October 28 & 29 - Waste Audit Sign-up here
Join us for McMaster’s 2025 Waste Audit and help make a measurable impact on campus sustainability! Volunteers will help sort and collect data from waste samples to understand better what’s being thrown away and how we can improve McMaster’s waste diversion rate.
There are three shifts available each day:
- 8 a.m. – 11 a.m.
- 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Waste audit locations will vary across campus depending on the shift selected. Details will be shared with volunteers prior to their shift.
No experience necessary—just bring your enthusiasm for sustainability and be prepared to get hands-on! Gloves and safety equipment will be provided.
*NEW DATES* Join the McMaster Residence Sustainability Challenge!
October 27–31, 2025
Are you ready to make a difference and compete for prizes? From October 27 to 31, students living in residence can take part in a fun and impactful sustainability challenge using the ecoBoss app. Track your daily sustainable actions, earn points, and help your residence team rise to the top!
How It Works
- Form a team of up to 10 students (fewer is fine!) within your residence building.
- Download the ecoBoss app (available on iOS and Android starting October 20).
- Enter the challenge code:marauderlife
- Tap the badge icon in the app footer, select the McMaster Residence Challenge, and click Join Challenge.
- Record your sustainable actions daily to earn points for your team!
Examples of Sustainable Actions
- Taking public transit
- Using a reusable water bottle
- Turning off lights when leaving a room
- Riding a bike
- Printing double-sided
These actions are pre-set in the app — just log what you do and earn points!
Prizes
The top three scoring residence teams will win Campus Store gift cards:
- First Place: $100 per team member
- Second Place: $75 per team member
- Third Place: $50 per team member
Winners will be announced on November 3 on Instagram @SustainableMac