Evolve building achieves UBC’s second-ever REAP Platinum certification
UBC Properties Trust is thrilled to announce its 110-unit staff and faculty rental building, Evolve, has achieved REAP Platinum certification. Evolve is the second project ever to achieve REAP Platinum at UBC.
The Residential Environmental Assessment Program (REAP) is a green building rating system created for multi-unit residential developments at UBC. REAP aims to reduce environmental impacts on the building site and community as a result of construction. The certification ensures sustainable construction practices, low building energy and water consumption, and enhanced living environments. All new residential buildings must meet REAP Gold standards at a minimum with a wide range of optional additions to boost REAP ratings.
Evolve was designed with Passive House standards in mind — a construction model measured by energy efficiency and optimal comfort that significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions through all stages of development to habitation. The Passive House features require less consumption of heating or cooling energy up to 90%. Those features include triple-glazed windows and patio doors, a Heat Recovery Ventilation system, thick wall insulation, an airtight building envelope, additional exterior shading, solar panels powering common areas, and energy-efficient appliances and fixtures.
In partnership with UBC, UBCPT secured a $3.5-million Natural Resources Canada grant that would assist in covering the passive house construction costs and energy usage monitoring. The funding will also support UBC research that will be shared as an industry-leading project shaping the future of multi-unit residential building construction.
Further enhancing residents’ living experiences, the building features a courtyard with a terraced BBQ area, green space, various seating options, landscaping, and connections to the future Echo building, greenways and parks.
UBCPT shares this success with all those involved in the project. Aiming to be a net-zero emission multi-unit residential building, Evolve will redefine sustainable residential living and supports UBC’s commitment to a net-positive campus.