The Trades and Technology Complex at SAIT Polytechnic (The Southern Alberta Institute of Technology) has achieved two Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) gold certifications and one silver recognition.

The 740,000-square-foot facility opened to staff and students in August 2012, and features state-of-the-art labs and exposed infrastructure.

Green features throughout the facility include:

• Ensuring that 95 per cent of the building material waste is recyclable
• White reflective roofing materials that remain cool when the sun shines on them, thereby reducing need for increased air conditioning
• A multi-faceted, energy-saving digital lighting system that will pay for itself in two years through savings in electricity and light bulbs

“The Institute is leading by example with its green facilities and excellent educational offerings for students,” says Thomas Mueller, president and CEO of the Canada Green Building Council. “The shift to sustainability by educational institutions across the country is gaining ground and I look forward to seeing how SAIT students will be inspired to put what they learn into action.”