Net Zero is the latest buzzword around the green building industry. The implication is that we should strive for buildings that consume only as much energy as they generate on site. The Living Building Challenge has set this target and the 2030 Challenge aims for zero carbon emissions from buildings by 2030. But is this the right end goal? While achieving net zero is laudable, in the Canadian climate it may be a technically unrealistic target or, at best, financially impractical, because of the significant capital investment required in on-site renewable energy generation.

By Stephen Carpenter

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Sustainable engineering firm shows how it’s done in LEED Platinum headquarters

In the design of Enermodal’s new headquarters, A Grander View, the primary goal was to create a LEED Platinum office that would be the most energy-efficient in Canada. Since its completion in late 2009, energy consumption for the 2150 m2 building is 69 kWh/m2 of energy per year. This was very close to the design energy modelling predictions of 65 kWh/m2. This compares favourably with the Canadian average of almost 400 kWh/m2. Water consumption is a metered 82 % lower than for a conventional building – exceeding predictions by 9%. This level of performance was largely accomplished through an integrated mechanical system, although building form, orientation and materials all played a part.

By Stephen Carpenter

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Improved performance, reduced costs

As more new buildings are becoming LEED certified, the attention is also turning to North America’s existing building stock, which includes many inefficient, poorly functioning, unhealthy, and uncomfortable buildings. Now, building owners are looking to save operating costs as well as get their building LEED EB: O&M [Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance] certified.

By Reg Barsoum and Jon Douglas, with an overview by Susan Buchanan

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Simplicity of design and execution make a winner

The north elevation. All windows are operable for natural ventilation

In cross-section, this two storey, 1,115 sq.m office building is a simple flat roofed rectangle, the upper level being a partial mezzanine leaving double height spaces to promote stratification of warm air. In plan the building is elongated in the east-west direction, maximizing the benefits of north and south exposure for day-lighting and passive solar heating. (more…)

Passive and active measures a model for small scale design

The east elevation and main entrance

Ball’s Falls Conservation Area is part of the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority’s Nodal Park System - providing public education and awareness of the Niagara Escarpment. The new Centre for Conservation will serve as a public entry point to the 20 Valley World Biosphere Reserve and the preserved heritage settlement. (more…)

Integrated design delivers Ontario’s first LEED Platinum

The north elevation. All windows are operable for natural ventilation.

The new Restoration Services Centre is located on the Toronto Conservation Authority’s ‘Living City Campus’ in Vaughan ON, home of the newly created secretariat of the World Green Building Council. The new structure symbolizes the TCRA’s commitment to energy efficiency and excellence in environmental design, within its broader mandate of environmental restoration and conservation in the Toronto region. (more…)

LEED Silver pavilion furthers mission of environmental stewardship

The dramatic lantern effect at night reveals the steel frame sculptural form

The Toronto Botanical Garden [TBG] is a charitable organization whose purpose is to inspire passion, respect and understanding of gardening, horticulture, the natural landscape and a healthy environment. (more…)