The purpose of the Campus Sustainability Competition, in collaboration with UWSA is to provide an opportunity for students to identify and propose solutions to sustainability challenges on campus. This competition will allow passionate students to gain experience in research, proposal writing, and communication while sharing innovative project ideas and solution-driven initiative proposals. We invite University of Windsor students to submit innovative project proposals that may help formulate, foster, and coordinate activities that promote campus sustainability values in teaching, research, operations, and daily lifestyle choices. As an outcome of the University of Windsor’s Aspire Strategic Plan and the Campus Sustainability Framework, this competition aims to recognize and reward students by awarding prizes for their efforts in submitting the winning pitch proposals.
Submissions for the 2026 Student Sustainability Competition is now open!
2026 Sustainability Student Competition
We invite University of Windsor students to submit innovative project proposals that may help formulate, foster, and coordinate activities that promote campus sustainability values in teaching, research, operations, and daily lifestyle choices. As an outcome of the University of Windsor’s Aspire Strategic Plan and the Campus Sustainability Framework, this competition aims to recognize and reward students by awarding prizes for their efforts in submitting the winning pitch proposals. In collaboration with UWSA and the Office of Sustainability.
Students must submit their proposal by March 31st, 2026 at 11:59pm.
Prizes are:
- First Place: $ 1,500
- Second Place: $ 1,250
- Third Place: $ 1,000
For full competition details and to complete your submission visit: Sustainability Student Competition 2026 form
2025 Competition Winners
Program of Study:
- Elnaz, PhD candidate in Industrial Engineering
- Samira, PhD Candidate in Environmental Engineering
Prize: $2,500
Project Description: This innovative project combines technology, community, and physical engagement to promote sustainable living. It features an ‘AI Smart Bin’ to assist with sorting campus waste, and a ‘Campus Sharing System’ platform where students can borrow and exchange items like clothes, food, and school supplies, reducing waste and overconsumption. In addition, the project introduces ‘Eco-Power Stations’, where students can generate electricity through physical activity — merging health, sustainability, and renewable energy in an interactive way.
Program of Study: PhD Candidate, Environmental Science
Prize: $1,500
Project Description: An interdisciplinary, open-access resource designed to help faculty integrate sustainability principles and pedagogies into their teaching across all fields. This toolbox empowers educators to make sustainability a core part of the curriculum and inspire the next generation of changemakers.
Program of Study: Bachelor of Applied Science – Mechanical Engineering
Prize: $500
Project Description: This hands-on project engages students in sustainability through a fun, active experience. By building and using a smoothie bike, students can make healthy smoothies while learning about food and nutrition, reducing food waste, and sustainable energy through human-powered technology.
Program of Study: Bachelor of Science - Electrical Engineering
Prize: $500
Project Description: A visionary project to construct a campus greenhouse that would support sustainable food production, offer environmental education opportunities, and serve as a hub for community engagement. The greenhouse will contribute to local food security, encourage student-led innovation, and deepen sustainability understanding across campus and in the broader community.
