This building capitalizes on its unique location on top of a decommissioned sewage treatment facility to push the boundaries of stormwater reuse. Storm drainage lines were redirected into a decommissioned settling pond that provides a storage capacity of 400,000 L. Recycled rainwater is used for irrigation, flushing toilets, washing municipal vehicles, and filling street-washing vehicles. This system eliminates the use of potable water to wash civic utility vehicles and city streets, saving over 2 million litres of water/year. Waterless urinals, dual-flush toilets, and low-flow faucets contribute to a reduction in building water usage of over 30%. Stormwater runoff is reduced by 26% using a green roof, landscaping, a grass pave parking lot, and a collection tank.
To reduce resource consumption use, a storage tank from the sewage treatment facility was reused as the foundation of the building. Salvaged materials include heavy timbers, wood decking, and insulation. The structure was constructed out of EcoSmart concrete containing 40% fly-ash content, and 98% of demolition and construction waste was diverted from landfill.
Through a comprehensive energy strategy, the building uses 60% less energy than the MNECB. Solar hot water tubes serve as the primary source of heat for the building and are supplemented by a high-efficiency boiler. Heat is delivered throughout the building using a hydronic radiant floor system connected to the collected stormwater - which functions as a traditional ground-source heat-pump. A 2.5 kW photovoltaic panel array provides some of the building's electricity requirements, and all purchased power is procured from BC Hydro Green Power Certificates.
Innovative mechanical designs provide an annual cost savings of approximately $5,000 compared to a conventionally constructed building. Passive strategies were used to reject summer heat gain, including roof overhangs, exterior solar shades, and a landscape plan that uses deciduous trees. Increased insulation reduces heat loss and operable windows provide light, ventilation and reduce cooling loads. To reduce energy use through lighting, daylighting is maximized throughout office spaces and each workstation incorporates task lighting. Occupancy sensors were installed in common areas, low-wattage LED lights are used for EXIT signs, and metal halide and compact fluorescent luminaries provide efficient outdoor lighting significantly reducing light pollution.
Tours: Not available
This Post Was imported from the 'Greater Vancouver Green Guide', it's part of the 'Green Guide Portal' to the Green Building Brain
