VANCOUVER, BC, July 10,
2024 /CNW/ - Energy efficiency upgrades to the
Central Library in Library Square are underway after a combined
investment of more than $5.9 million
from the federal government and the City
of Vancouver.
The library is replacing the current cooling systems with new
heat pumps and energy recovery equipment, which will improve energy
efficiency and reduce operational costs, as well as improve overall
comfort and experience for both patrons and staff.
The Green and Inclusive Buildings (GICB) program aims to improve
the places Canadians work, learn, play, live and come together by
cutting pollution, reducing costs, and supporting thousands of good
jobs.
Through green and other upgrades to existing public community
buildings and new builds in underserved communities, the GICB
program helps ensure community facilities are inclusive,
accessible, and have a long service life, while also helping
Canada move towards its net-zero
objectives by 2050.
Quotes
"I am pleased to announce the investment in these important
energy upgrades to the Central Library in Library Square. Libraries
are places where magic happens − children discover, students learn,
and neighbors gather. These green improvements will enable the
Library to thrive, with better air quality and extra cost savings
for increased quality of services."
The Honourable Hedy Fry, Member of Parliament for Vancouver
Centre on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of
Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
"Vancouver's Central Library is
an iconic landmark, drawing visitors from near and far to its
doors. With this contribution from Housing, Infrastructure and
Communities Canada, we're championing sustainability providing
patrons with a world-class experience."
His Worship Ken Sim, Mayor of City
of Vancouver
Quick Facts
- The federal government is investing $2,382,080 in
this project through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings
(GICB) program and the City of
Vancouver is contributing $3,562,951.
- These improvements are expected to reduce the facility's energy
consumption by an estimated 11.1% and greenhouse gas emissions by
167 tonnes annually.
- The GICB program was created in support of Canada's Strengthened Climate Plan: A Healthy
Environment and a Healthy Economy. It is supporting the Plan's
first pillar by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing
energy efficiency, and helping develop higher resilience to climate
change.
- The program launched in 2021 with an initial investment of
$1.5 billion over five years towards
green and accessible retrofits, repairs or upgrades.
- Budget 2024 announced an additional $500
million to support more projects through GICB until 2029.
Infrastructure Canada is currently
reviewing next steps for the GICB program following this recent
announcement.
- At least 10% of funding is allocated to projects serving First
Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, including Indigenous
populations in urban centres.
Associated Links
Green and Inclusive Community Buildings
https://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/gicb-bcvi/index-eng.html
Strengthened Climate Plan
https://www.canada.ca/en/services/environment/weather/climatechange/climate-plan/climate-plan-overview.html
Federal infrastructure investments in British Columbia
Infrastructure Canada -
Infrastructure in British
Columbia
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SOURCE Department of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities