Envision Credit Union
This project represents the first financial institution in Canada to successfully earn LEED Certification for its environmentally responsible design.
Envision Credit Union’s Willoughby Branch represents the company’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and responsible community development. Guided by a strong commitment to environmental responsibility, project goals specified the integration of green design principles and design targets were set on LEED Certification.
Cobalt provided mechanical design services and also provided LEED consulting services to help this project realize its sustainable goals. With energy as a forefront concern, Envision turned to Green Power Certificates for 100% of its power requirements. For each certificate purchased, BC Hydro will guarantee to use an equal amount of renewable electricity for the grid.
Thoughtful building design enhanced the quality of the interior spaces. Working in harmony with nature, building designs maximized daylighting while also creating ample access to exterior views. Special care was exercised when selecting building materials and interior finishes. At least 16% of building materials were selected for recycled content, while almost 50% were manufactured locally.
Another sustainable goal was water conservation. This was achieved through water efficient landscape design, as well as dual flush toilets and waterless urinals. These combined features reduced potable water consumption by 42%. This equals approximately 130,000 litres of water savings annually.
