Recognizing St. Clair College's Facilities Leadership Team for Environmental Stewardship
As St. Clair College embarks on its decarbonization journey, the Facilities Leadership Team stands out for its commitment to environmental stewardship and innovative strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Facing several challenges, the team has embraced a proactive approach, focusing on optimizing existing systems rather than merely replacing aging equipment with like-for-like solutions.
Key to their strategy is the deferred maintenance program, which prioritizes the integration of sustainable technologies such as heat pumps, electric boilers, and hybrid HVAC units. By conducting engineering studies, the team assesses actual demand and evaluates low greenhouse gas options, ensuring that both capital and operational costs are considered. This thoughtful approach not only aids in reducing emissions but also aligns with the college's long-term sustainability goals.
The team's recent efforts have yielded impressive results, with three completed projects leading to an energy cost reduction of $236,247 and a significant decrease in the carbon footprint by 385 tonnes. Through initiatives like duct sealing technology, the team has tackled air leakage in HVAC systems, recognizing that maintaining proper airflow is critical for energy efficiency and environmental health.
Recognizing the importance of ventilation performance, the Facilities Leadership Team has implemented CO2 monitoring and optimized building automation systems (BAS) to adjust ventilation based on real-time usage. This focus extends to enhancing the comfort of students and staff while addressing energy consumption and emissions.
In conjunction with these upgrades, all campuses have transitioned to LED lighting, improving efficiency and reducing energy costs. The team’s collaboration with an Energy Manager has further streamlined their efforts, enabling them to identify high-priority projects and apply for incentives that bolster their sustainability initiatives.
The leadership team understands that achieving the ambitious 2050 goals requires a community-based approach and a commitment to collaboration. They are continuously evaluating and integrating renewable energy options, including solar and geothermal technologies, into their long-term planning.
St. Clair College's Facilities Leadership Team exemplifies what it means to lead by example in environmental stewardship. Their innovative strategies and dedication to sustainability not only benefit the college community but also contribute positively to the environment. As they continue to optimize operations and embrace new technologies, they pave the way for a greener future for all.