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Typically, a green roof is a roof that has been built to allow the growth of vegetation. These roofs have to be specially constructed to permit plant growth, and feature special layers for drainage, aeration, water storage, insulation and a barrier to ensure that roots do not penetrate the building. Landscaping is usually designed to be relatively self-sustaining, so less maintenance is required. Green roofs help insulate the building, create a natural habitat for wildlife and help to lower urban air temperatures to reduce the heat island effect.
In a recent survey, when cyclists were asked what would encourage them to bike to work or school, they sited parking as the second-most important need (after more bike lanes). Aspen Ridge buildings have adequate secure space dedicated to bicycle parking for residents.
| Availability of Major Public Transit |
Public transit is integral to the healthy functioning of our city. In the average business day in Toronto, the TTC system experiences approximately 1.5 million rides. That's a lot of cars off the road... Ease of access to public transit makes it easier for Aspen Ridge residents to take a bus, subway or streetcar to work, out for entertainment and more.
| Existing Pedestrian Access |
Direct access to existing pedestrian infrastructure encourages walking as an alternative mode of transportation, and also encourages greater use of public transit.
| Minimize Emissions During Construction |
Construction activity can raise a lot dust, and create a lot of noise and diesel vehicle emissions. These nuisances can be especially difficult on neighbouring workers and occupants, who may experience poor indoor air and sound quality. Mitigating strategies include the cleaning roads and work surfaces, tire wash stations and the installation of air intakes. In addition, a percentage of our vehicle fleet uses bio-diesel which has a less-offensive odour.
| Minimize Emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds |
Household volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are toxic emissions found in paint, carpeting, hardwood flooring and more. These VOCs pose health risks to adults such as Sick Building Syndrome, and can contribute to respiratory and immunity issues with infants and children. For a healthier indoor environment, Aspen Ridge has established a policy of building with a minimum 45% low-emitting (low-VOC) materials.
| No Halons & CFC-Based Refrigerants |
Historically, CFCs and halons were chemicals used to aid in refrigeration equipment such as air conditioners and refrigerators. However, it has been accepted as early as the 1970s that the use of these two chemicals depletes the ozone layer. While the use of CFCs and halons is still legal, these chemicals are being phased out of production. Out of concern for our environment today, Aspen Ridge has a policy of not purchasing refrigerators and air conditioners containing CFCs and halons.
| Light-Coloured Materials Used on 50% of Hardscape |
Dark-coloured materials generally do not reflect the sun's warmth as well as lighter-coloured materials, and thus absorb more heat which helps create urban heat island effect. The use of lighter-coloured materials on a building's hardscape reduces heat island effect, which helps keep the outdoor temperature of the city cooler in the summer and reduces our reliance on air conditioning.
| Thermal Comfort Standards |
The concept of "thermal comfort" has been defined by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) as a state of mind that experiences satisfaction with the surrounding environment. The 2004 standards specify that 80% of building occupants should feel thermal comfort, which creates a happier indoor environment and protects against Sick Building Syndrome symptoms.
| 25% Improvement Over Model National Energy Code |
The Model National Energy Code of Canada was established in 1997 to set minimum requirements for energy efficiency in new buildings. While the Canadian government is drafting a new code, expected to be published in 2011, the city of Toronto is promoting a voluntary standard to develop buildings that are 25% more energy efficient than the national benchmark.
| 70% of Water Fixtures Energy Star® Compliant |
Without making a noticeable difference, Energy Star water fixtures help reduce household water consumption. This benefit doesn't just save water – it saves energy, because it takes electricity to heat the water. Also, all waste water is routed back to the water company where the water is treated, which also requires energy.
| 70% of Appliances Energy Star® Compliant |
Energy Star is an international standard established in 1992 to govern and promote energy-efficient consumer products. Compared against regular appliances, Energy Star clothes washers use about 30% less energy and 50% less water; dishwashers use about 10% less energy while reducing water consumption; and refrigerators are about 20% more energy efficient.
| Building Orientation for Passive Solar Heating/Cooling |
Passive solar technologies utilize the sun's rays to harness energy without the use of active mechanical systems such as pumps and fans. In order to achieve a passive solar design, the building must have a south-facing exposure with glazing, and a material on the interior of the building that is capable of absorbing and storing the heat for later use.
| Rainwater Collection System |
To conserve the potable water supply, a collection system retains rainwater which is then reused to water trees, shrubs and grass on the building's property. Not only is this an excellent reuse of a natural resource, but it helps reduce the burden on the city's sewer system following a rainfall.
| Recycling Of Household Waste |
To encourage recycling, waste collection rooms on each floor come equipped with a three-chute garbage disposal system that allows for individual disposal of organic waste, recyclable materials and non-recyclable materials. This sorting promotes the recycling of household waste while diverting valuable reusable materials from landfill.
| Construction Materials Salvaged or Recycled |
With an undertaking as monumental as the construction of a high-rise building, construction waste is inevitable. In addition to minimizing the amount of building waste generated, non-hazardous construction materials are salvaged or recycled, and in some cases these materials are converted back to new recycled construction materials further down the chain.
| 7.5% of Building Materials Consist of Recycled Content |
The use of recycled materials benefits the environment by reducing the amount of "virgin" or unused natural product that goes into the construction of a building. This conserves our natural resources, and is an intelligent reuse of waste.
| Native Trees, Shrubs & Ground Cover on 50% of Site |
Preserving the vegetation surrounding a building preserves the natural heritage of the site and ensures that the development is in harmony with the area's wildlife. No invasive species that could disrupt native growths are planted on the property, streets adjacent to the site and natural area parks.
| No Light Directed Skyward |
Light pollution is a waste of energy, it obscures the stars at night, and also plays a role in adverse health effects such as increased headache incidence, fatigue from decreased deep sleep, stress and anxiety. Light pollution also has a negative impact on wildlife, interrupting migration patterns and putting a stress on plant and animal physiology. Eliminating light directed upward through enhanced design features and operational practices helps reduce the amount of light pollution we experience in urban centres.
| Bird-Friendly Development Guidelines |
It is estimated that in Toronto one million birds die each year due to collisions with buildings. Daytime strikes occur because birds cannot perceive images reflected in glass as reflections, and thus will fly into windows that they think are trees or sky. Strategies to help birds see buildings include creating visual markers such as film decals or fenestration patterns; and muting the reflections caused by the windows with architectural nuances such as angled glass, awnings, overhangs and sunshades. Light pollution is another contributing factor in bird collisions because it confuses migratory patterns. Downward lighting is one way to combat light pollution.
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