LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification, is a point-based system used in more than 167 countries around the world, including Canada, to evaluate a building’s sustainability. It’s a globally recognized symbol of excellence in green building.
Receiving the LEED certification means that a building uses sustainable products and practices that conserve resources, reduces carbon emissions, lowers operating costs, and creates a healthier environment. When the certification program began almost 30 years ago, it was intended for new “green” buildings, but it has grown and evolved over the years to also include retrofitted buildings with improved interiors and exteriors.
The Nutrien Tower in downtown Saskatoon recently became the first building in the province of Saskatchewan and only the fourth project in Canada to be LEED Platinum certified for Interior Design and Construction for Commercial Interiors.
Nutrien achieved LEED certification for implementing practical and measurable sustainability strategies and solutions in areas including water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, material and resources, indoor environmental quality, and innovation.
“The interior of the building is reflective of Nutrien as a company, through its unique architecture and custom finishes and graphics which tell a story and showcase our different business lines,” says Graham Canvin, Nutrien’s senior director of Global Facilities. “I am proud of the importance that was placed on making Nutrien Tower a place for employee wellness and collaboration.”
Employees benefit from features such as an abundance of natural light, nature views, clean air, and low-emitting floor and ceiling products. (Credit: Nutrien)
“Throughout the entire process of building and designing the interior of Saskatoon’s Nutrien Tower, sustainability was at the forefront,” says Tim Faveri, Nutrien’s VP of Sustainability and Stakeholder Relations. “This building represents our commitment to the environment and community and that starts with providing a healthy work environment for our employees.”
As the world’s largest provider of crop inputs and services, Nutrien plays a critical role in Feeding the Future by helping growers increase food production in a sustainable manner. With 24,700 employees and a global footprint of operations and investments, Nutrien’s crop inputs and services reach major growing regions all over the world.
“Achieving LEED Platinum certification is more than just implementing sustainable practices. It represents a commitment to making the world a better place and influencing others to do better,” says Peter Templeton, president and CEO of US Green Building Council. “Given the extraordinary importance of climate protection and the central role buildings play in that effort, Nutrien is creating a path forward through their LEED Platinum certification.”
Featured image courtesy of Nutrien.
