MacEwan University
OP-4: Building Design and Construction

The University Service Center building (USC) was opened in 2011 and is situated on top of the west parkade at 110 street and 104 avenue, alleviating the need to increase the physical footprint of the campus. The center was built to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver Standard. LEED encourages participants to incorporate green development practices throughout the planning, construction and operation of building projects. “Water conservation measures at the USC will save up to 30 per cent of water compared to a conventional building,” said Brent Quinton, Vice-President, University Services. “Water conservation features including low flow faucets have been incorporated throughout the USC.” The USC also reduces energy consumption by up to 40%; this is achieved by optimizing energy performance of the electrical and mechanical systems. In order to help reduce the Urban Heat Island Effect, the USC has incorporated a high albedo roof, or a “solar reflective roof.” The USC roof is painted white and transfers less heat to the building, keeping it cooler. This reduces energy needed to cool the building and also helps with building-occupant comfort and health. The USC received BOMA Best level 3 certification with a grade of 83% and its LEED Silver certification is still pending.

Policy D5070 Facilities Planning and Design states that: "Grant MacEwan University shall plan and design facilities to meet or exceed all building codes for the optimal balance of cost, environmental, societal, and human benefits while meeting the mission, goals and function of the intended infrastructure. The University will use an integrated approach for facilities planning and design that views facilities projects holistically as contiguous elements in a sustainable facilities infrastructure." Policy highlights include: "2.2.2 Planning and design of the MacEwan campus should minimize both the depletion of natural resources and the degradation of the environment, reflecting MacEwan’s commitment to environmental stewardship and conservation. 2.2.3 Overall, the MacEwan campus should exemplify the University’s commitment to sustainability (recognizing the fundamental interdependence of environmental, economic and social imperatives), while being a legacy for future generations. 2.2.3.1 The campus should reflect societal ideals for a sustainable living, working and studying environment without compromise to its aesthetic appeal. 4.4 In commitment to MacEwan’s sustainability objectives, facilities projects shall address the following principles: 4.4.1 Optimize the site or existing structure potential for effects on the ecosystem: reuse or rehabilitation of existing buildings; location, orientation and landscaping; transportation methods, parking; physical security and access. 4.4.2 Optimize energy use: consider means of reducing load, increasing efficiency and using renewable resources. 4.4.3 Protect and conserve water: reduce, control and/or treat site runoff; use water efficiently; re-use or re-cycle water where feasible. 4.4.4 Use environmentally preferable products: use materials that minimize lifecycle environmental impacts, have a reduced effect on human health and the environment and that have reduced disposal costs. 4.4.5 Enhance indoor environmental quality: optimize day-lighting; use appropriate ventilation and moisture control; avoid the use of materials with high VOC emissions. 4.4.6 Optimize operational and maintenance practices: use practices that improve the working environment, increase productivity and prevent failure. 4.5 MacEwan will set tracking indicators in applicable areas of sustainability to measure performance against objectives.

At this time, all MacEwan University major capital projects are designed to meet or exceed LEED Silver. As stipulated by Policy D5070: "MacEwan will set tracking indicators in applicable areas of sustainability to measure performance against objectives. Authority: MacEwan will comply with applicable Government legislation, municipal bylaws, zoning restrictions and Alberta Building Codes in consideration of LEED principles espoused by the Alberta Chapter of the Canada Green Building Council for sustainability in the whole life cycle of its facility and campus. This policy is guided by the principles of National Institute of Building Sciences Whole Building Design Guide, the Canada Green Building Council and the environmental beliefs expressed in the Creed of Dr. J.W. Grant MacEwan."

University Service Center building opened in 2011 = 5,588 sq m (achieved BOMA Best Level 3, LEED Silver certification pending) Last 5 years major renovations = 15,000 sq m (not certified but built according to green building guidelines and policy D5070)