With this recognition, the UVic’s Social Sciences and Mathematics Building opened in 2008 has become the third campus facility to achieve the LEED Gold level standard in environmental design and sustainability.
The Social Sciences and Mathematics Building encompasses 9,090 square metres of office, classroom and research lab space for the departments of geography, political science, mathematics and statistics, the School of Environmental Studies and the UVic/Environment Canada Water & Climate Impacts Research Centre (W-CIRC), as well as lecture theatre space and meeting rooms. It is located on a former parking lot.
One of the distinct sustainability feature of the building is the lobby area, which feature the first architectural application of pine-beetle damaged wood in British Columbia. The courtyard contains the Ian Ross Memorial Garden, a living laboratory of native plants.
Some of the sustainability features integrated with the facility are: Stormwater management approach using rainwater capture and on-site detention; multiple green roofs; natural ventilation systems; occupancy sensors in classrooms, hallways and lecture theatres; energy-efficient lighting; wter-saving plumbing fixtures, such as low-flow toilets and sensor faucets; use of treated waste water for toilets and urinals; on-site bike parking; shower and change facilities; close proximity to transit; use of locally sourced building materials; native plant landscaping; topsoil salvage for use in other campus landscaping projects; and use of permeable paving for courtyard and access driveways.
The building has incorporated energy efficiency that is 31% higher than the Model National Building Code and invested in green power investments to off-set building energy consumption.
The building also features central recycling stations and oil and grease separators by loading zones. Erosion and sediment control plans had been adhered to during construction. Almost 85% of waste was diverted during construction.
UVic is also targeting LEED Gold certification for its recently completed First Peoples House, and for the new South Tower student residence building, slated to open in January 2011.
