401 Burrard - A Greener Office Building
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401 Burrard - leading the way
The Government of Canada building at 401 Burrard is one that Canadians should feel proud of!
Public Works and Government Services Canada incorporated green technologies into the design of the building in 2002 to reduce the overall impact on the environment, use energy and water more efficiently and protect worker and occupant health. In fact, on February 15, 2007, the Honourable Michael Fortier, Minister of Public Works and Government Services, encouraged the Standing Committee on Government Operations and Estimates to “see 401 Burrard in Vancouver, a 19-storey office tower that represents a new generation of commercial office space, not only in terms of sustainability but also in terms of providing a healthier and more productive work environment.”
Public Works set out to make 401 Burrard an example of sustainability:
- stone was reused from the foundations of the former Customs building on the new building's outdoor plaza
- office furniture was refurbished and reused
- flooring alternatives to wall-to-wall carpet were used whenever possible: stained-concrete floors, cork, bamboo and Marmoleum (a linoleum-like flooring made with natural substances like linseed) in the interior, the paint used was low in volatile organic compounds and walls were covered with natural-fibre wallpaper affixed with non-toxic glue
- lighting costs were reduced using energy efficient light fixtures, extensive use of natural light and motion sensitive lights programmed to operate only when needed
- low-flow plumbing was installed to save water
There are over 240 PSAC members who work at 401 Burrard from the Department of Fisheries & Oceans including the Canadian Coast Guard, as well as Environment Canada.