York U group hoping to foster an eco-conscious mindset among students

Through all the exams and stress, it can be hard to remember everything that’s taught in college or university. But some lessons learned stay with you throughout your life.

That’s why one group at York University is encouraging sustainable behaviour at postsecondary schools by fostering an eco-conscious mindset among students. 

Nonprofit Regenesis is empowering students to make environmental change. From selling fresh produce at affordable prices to offering free donated clothes, these student-run initiatives are open to all students, staff and locals on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Shirin Chugh, a second-year student at York University, says, “I would say it’s so much [more] affordable than Walmart, so much [more] accessible,” Chugh, 20, explains. “I just have to walk on campus during my class and just grab my veggies and I’m good for the week.”

“So, it has actually changed me a bit in some ways; it has made me more aware about sustainability.” 

Regenesis’s initiatives tackle these different facets of sustainability:

1. Building a circular economy through its borrowing centre and through its Free Store, which offers donated clothes and accessories at no cost. 
2. Advancing food justice through YUM Market, which sells locally sourced produce at wholesale prices. 
3. Encouraging sustainable transportation through the Cycle York Community Bike Centre, a hub that repairs and sells budget-friendly bikes.

Emilia Kolodko, co-program coordinator at Regenesis York Chapter says, “We can actually talk to people and implement those changes, which is something that the stores that care about profit don’t have time to do.”

Regenesis first launched in 2009 as a student environment club at York University’s Keele campus and the University of Toronto’s St. George campus.

Today, its network includes five universities across Toronto, plus one in Mississauga. Regenesis is currently expanding across Ontario and recently, B.C. Each chapter is run by students who come up with programs that fit their university’s needs.

“Higher education and universities, colleges, really play a role in addressing some of our global challenges,” says Nicole Arsenault, program director for sustainability at York. “Defining ways of doing things on campus within our local communities is really powerful.” 

Kolodko, for example, began as a Regenesis volunteer when they were studying at York. Today, they help run programs.