SAIT Polytechnic was honoured with the 2013 Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) Academic Leadership Award June 6, at the council’s annual general meeting in Vancouver.

The award was presented to the school for educating architectural and construction students about sustainable design and construction.

“SAIT Polytechnic has broken new ground on several fronts to further sustainable design and building in (Alberta),” says Tanya Doran, executive director of the CaGBC, Alberta chapter. “The institute’s diligence in introducing LEED course content, sustainable construction research and a generally raised awareness of environmental issues in the building industry illustrate SAIT Polytechnic’s joint commitment to industry – and the environment.”

The CaGBC Leadership Awards recognize individuals, organizations and volunteers that have made a significant contribution to the green building movement in Canada. SAIT received one of nine awards handed out by the CaGBC this year.

The Province of Alberta was also honoured, receiving the Government Leadership Award for its “endeavors to promote health, productivity and safety of Albertans through the design and maintenance of the built environment through the use of the LEED rating.” Alberta was recognized for the 42 provincial schools that are either LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified or registered, and for setting a minimum standard of LEED silver for all new government-funded projects.