Rebecca Pedneault

A knowledgeable and engaged environmental advocate, Rebecca Pedneault has helped take waste reduction to a new level at The University of Winnipeg.

The fourth-year science student received the 2017 Geography and Environmental Students Association (GESA) Eco-Grant for her proposal to introduce a plastic bag recycling program on campus.

Winnipeg doesn’t have a residential plastic bag recycling program and many unwanted grocery bags end up in the landfill where they break-down slowly and can eventually enter our waterways as harmful microplastics.

Pedneault — who is graduates this year with a degree in biology and environmental studies, and a minor in geography — saw an opportunity to improve campus sustainability and educate the University community on environmentally-friendly bag disposal.

In partnership with Multi-Material Stewardship Manitoba and Winnipeg Harvest’s “Bag It Forward” program, Pedneault’s efforts have helped divert more than 1,500 plastic bags from the landfill.

Pedneault’s aptitude in her chosen field is evident in the glowing reviews from professors in the Faculty of Science, who describe her as an excellent student with a keen willingness to learn in an academic and research environment.

Outside of the classroom, Pedneault is involved in a variety of projects related to her studies and her training as a Master Gardener and arborist. She volunteers with local community gardens and is seasonally employed with UWinnipeg’s Physical Plant, where she is responsible for taking care of campus greenery and cleaning up litter.

Pedneault demonstrates her passion for environmental stewardship through her actions and engagement with the University community.

For her dedication to sustainability and environmental education on campus, The University of Winnipeg is proud to present Rebecca Pedneault with the 2017 Campus Sustainability Award.