Vancouver Convention Centre Achieves World-Leading Sustainability Rating

Living Roof

The Vancouver Convention Centre (VCC) is the world’s first double LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Platinum convention centre.

On October 10, 2017, the centre announced that its West Building had been awarded LEED Platinum certification (version 4) for Existing Buildings: Operations and Maintenance by the Canada Green Building Council. In 2010, it received Platinum certification for New Construction.

Platinum is the highest level of LEED, and version 4 is the newest version of the rating system, which is considered the framework and benchmark for the next generation of green buildings.

“While the Vancouver Convention Centre was built to the highest environmental standard with features like our six-acre living roof and impressive green technology, our commitment to the environment is more than the building itself, significant as it is,” says Ken Cretney, president and CEO, BC Pavilion Corporation. “When we opened our West building, we set out to be a global leader in sustainability to make a difference in our community and global industry. I am extremely proud of our team for its dedication and hard work to further our sustainability program, resulting in this prestigious second Platinum designation.”

The centre received the certification after rigorously re-examining all areas of operation, including engagement with stakeholders, clients and retailers to identify opportunities for enhanced sustainable performance. The Platinum certification was earned for excellence in waste management, energy efficiency, indoor water use reduction, facility maintenance and renovations, and more.

“Congratulations to the whole team at the Vancouver Convention Centre for once again proving their leadership in sustainability by earning Canada’s first LEED v4 Platinum Existing Buildings certification,” says Thomas Mueller, president and CEO, Canada Green Building Council. ” Through the LEED v4 Platinum certification, the VCC team is ensuring that this world-class venue continues to be operated and maintained at the highest level delivering environmental and health benefits for years to come. At the same time the VCC is setting an example for convention facilities around the world while showcasing Vancouver’s commitment to environmental excellence.”

About LEED

Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED is the most widely used green building rating system in the world. Available for virtually all building, community and home project types, LEED provides a framework to create healthy, highly efficient and cost-saving green buildings. LEED certification is a globally-recognized symbol of sustainability achievement.