The University of British Columbia
OP-1: Building Operations and Maintenance

UBC Policy 5: Sustainable Development (1997) mandates sustainable building and lands operation and maintenance (http://www.universitycounsel.ubc.ca/files/2010/08/policy5.pdf). Inspirations & Aspirations: The UBC Sustainability Strategy (2006-2010) outlines specific targets and strategies (http://www.sustain.ubc.ca/pdfs/ia/UBC_Sustainability_Strategy_2007.pdf). Practices include the following: MINIMIZING IMPACTS ON SURROUNDING SITES UBC has suspended the use of all chemical pesticides for 'cosmetic' use across campus, and no chemical pesticides, herbicides, or fungicides are used unless there are extenuating circumstances and all other options have been exhausted; UBC has incorporated innovative stormwater practices into its campus planning since 1997; and UBC generates its own compost for landscaping by collecting food waste and processing it in a facility on campus. MINIMIZING ENERGY CONSUMPTION Highlights of UBC's energy conservation tactics include an Energy Management Plan, a Climate Action Plan with extremely aggressive GHG reduction targets, an automated Building Management System, and a rolling Continuous Optimization program (includes energy audits, implementation of energy conservation measures and monitoring). PURCHASING ENVIRONMENTALLY PREFERABLE MATERIALS UBC's practices include Green Housekeeping in green and non-green buildings and progressive procurement practices, outlined in the UBC Sustainable Purchasing Guide. The Technical Guidelines outline requirements and preferences for materials procured for renovations and upgrades, in addition to new construction. PROTECTING INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY UBC provides information, support and programming through its Risk Management: Health & Safety Group, and a responsive trouble call system for building occupants through Building Operations. Project Services implements the asbestos abatement and removal program. MINIMIZING WATER CONSUMPTION UBC has reduced water consumption in buildings through major retrofit projects and improved landscaping/irrigation practices, and has started engaging staff and faculty in labs to reduce water consumption as part of a Green Labs program. For more information, please visit: http://www.sustain.ubc.ca/campus-sustainability/greening-the-campus.