Greetings from Simon Fraser University

I am thrilled that Simon Fraser University (SFU) is host to the THE University Impact Forum on Sustainable Cities. We are at a critical time where we need to come together on a global scale to inspire climate action and make a positive impact. SFU will continue to take action to address climate change and promote efforts to build healthier, safer and more resilient communities. The climate crisis is an intersectional issue, and meaningful action requires input and involvement from stakeholders.

SFU is dedicated to advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We are global leaders in sustainability and ranked among the world’s top 10 universities in the THE Impact Rankings for three SDGs, including the goal of sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11).

This forum will explore the many aspects of climate change, both as a driver of risk – regardless of discipline or sector – and as a great opportunity to restructure towards sustainability. The exceptional programme will pose the question, “What does a just, resilient and sustainable future look like?” I look forward to working together to help answer that question.

Joy Johnson

President and vice-chancellor

Simon Fraser University

6,500

FACULTY AND STAFF

37,000+

STUDENTS

170,000

ALUMNI

About SFU

We are Canada’s engaged university.

We move beyond tradition. We go where others won’t. And we deliver a world-class education.

Simon Fraser University’s (SFU) distinctive west-coast spirit challenges conventions, celebrates new ideas, and embraces diversity. Established in 1965, we have become Canada’s leading comprehensive university, with three vibrant urban campuses and deeply rooted partnerships at home and internationally.

SFU is committed to creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive community where all feel welcome, safe, accepted and appreciated in learning, teaching, research and work. We are privileged to do this work on the unceded, traditional territories of the Squamish, Musqueam, Tsleil-Waututh, Katzie, Kwikwetlem, Qayqayt, Kwantlen, Semiahmoo and Tsawwassen peoples.

SFU now hosts more than 37,000 students in eight faculties spanning a broad range of fundamental, interdisciplinary and applied research topics and is consistently ranked as Canada’s top comprehensive university.

As Canada’s engaged university, SFU works with communities, organisations and partners to create, share and embrace knowledge that improves life and generates real change. Our commitment to engagement informs how we mobilise knowledge and further our contributions to local communities across Canada and around the world. By creating and mobilising knowledge, nurturing partnerships and harnessing the power of research, engagement at SFU is an instrument for change.

We are global leaders in sustainability. In 2020, SFU committed to a five-year sustainability plan to mobilise the entire institution to embed climate action throughout our operations, research, academics and community engagement. SFU ranks among the world’s top 10 universities in THE’s Impact Rankings for three of the United Nations’ SDGs: climate action (SDG 13), sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11) and peace, justice and strong institutions (SDG 16).

We are committed to bold actions for a better future. SFU has more than 250 international partnerships for research, experiential learning, academic collaborations and sustainable development projects. Our strong network of partners allows us to work together across disciplines, sectors and countries to mobilise on the SDGs. SFU is recognised as an innovative, community-engaged research university with global impact.

See how SFU is making an impact towards the SDGs at sfu.ca/sdgs.