June 20, 2006

Manitoba adopts LEED goals

WINNIPEG

Manitoba has committed to international environmental standards for all buildings constructed or refurbished with government money from now on.

“This policy is about doing more with our shared tax dollars,” said Energy Minister Dave Chomiak. “We are working to take building in our province to a new level.”

The new policy will see every building that is newly constructed or refurbished with provincial cash, such as public schools and hospitals, meet standards established by the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program.

There are four levels — certified, silver, gold and platinum. Manitoba will strive to exceed the silver level.

It means buildings will be more energy efficient, less toxic to employees and make better use of space, natural light and renewable energies like solar power and geothermal heating and cooling.

Points are given for things like having showers so that employees can bike to work; proximity to public transit; and natural light.

“Until very recently, green buildings were regarded as an interesting experiment,” said Esther Patzia of Smith Carter, a local architecture firm noted internationally for its innovations in sustainable design.

“Today, they’re regarded as the only way.”

She said green buildings are friendlier to the people who work in them, which makes for a happier workforce and productivity.

Alberta introduced a green building policy a month ago, but it only applies specifically to government buildings, not all buildings using government dollars.

CANADIAN PRESS

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