GOULD STREET

Certified Green on Yonge Street

Student Learning Centre earns LEED certification from Canada Green Building Council

RYERSON’S STUDENT Learning Centre (SLC) has not only transformed the face of Yonge Street—it’s also a leader in sustainability.

The SLC achieved LEED Gold status from the Canada Green Building Council, surpassing the original goal of LEED Silver compliancy. LEED-certified buildings are deemed to be resource-efficient (using less water and energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions) through an independent certification process.

“This is an expression of our commitment as a university to carbon footprint reduction,” said Saher Fazilat, assistant vice-president, Facilities Management and Development. “As a public institution, we have a commitment to the environment, and having a LEED Gold certification says a lot about how we’re focused on energy conservation, indoor air quality, student wellness and our academic mission.”

The 10-storey, 156,000-square-foot building at 341 Yonge St. includes a green roof, water-conserving plumbing fixtures, and a roof and ground water collection system designed to harvest storm water.

One of the primary factors in energy efficiency is the building’s transparent, temperature-moderating glass exterior. In addition to moderating natural light, the SLC’s blinds are programmed to respond to both solar radiation levels and temperature. “We selected the most efficient design option for the glazing system to achieve the most efficient energy savings,” said Mike Smith, senior associate at Zeidler Partnership Architects, which designed the building with Snøhetta.

“Surveys have shown that the facilities are highly important for students choosing an institution,” said Fazilat. “As an academic institution, we should have a commitment to sustainable buildings. The LEED Gold status ties into our strategic mandate.”

“Our role as the designer is to encourage owners to build more sustainably. Ryerson also has a mandate to build sustainably. Their goals and our goals aligned,” said Smith.—Will Sloan