Green Building, Sustainable Operation
At the YWCA we are committed to protecting the environment, and we've
taken every opportunity to make sure the design and construction of the
new Crossroads Shelter will create a very modest environmental
footprint.
Ken Trevelyan, the project architect, has considerable experience in
sustainable building design. He has included numerous features to
increase energy efficiency in the building and reduce its environmental
impact. As well, the shelter is located downtown; access to the transit
system is right outside the door, and support services and retail
outlets are well within walking distance.
We're very proud of the design of our new Crossroads Shelter. Not
only does it provide a secure and nurturing safe haven for its residents
- it is a beautiful and environmentally responsible building.
Key features that reduce the environmental footprint of the
new Crossroads Shelter:
- Recycling of demolition materials
- Use of low-emissions building materials
- Downtown location close to public transit, support services and
retail outlets
- Natural light from all sides of the building and the interior
courtyard
- Planted trees and over-hanging eaves that provide shade in the
summer and allow solar heat gain in the winter
- High-efficiency windows with sun shades
- High levels of insulation
- High-efficiency heating and air conditioning
- Solar hot water heating
- Heat recovery from wastewater
- Water-conserving showerheads, faucets and toilets
- ENERGY STAR appliances and mechanical equipment
- Permeable paving systems, swales and grass to filter and reduce
run-off
- In-house recycling and green waste separation
- Future 'off-peak' electrical consumption, using smart meters
