Conserving resources

Located in Banff National Park along the Bow River, the Centre is keenly aware of the importance conserving natural resources. Throughout the organization, changes have been made and systems have been put in place to reduce the Centre’s use of electricity, water, and fuel.

Reducing electricity use

• 95 per cent of campus has been retrofitted to high-efficiency lighting.
• Over 100 motion/occupancy sensors have been installed in public and staff washrooms.
• Exterior exit lights and Christmas lights have been switched to energy saving LED lights.

Water conservation

• As part of the Centre’s Revitalization project, a Storm Water Management Plan has been created to identify and implement best management practices. As part of the first phase of Revitalization, a bioswale has been built to catch and retain storm water and filter pollutants. The plan includes reducing the amount of impermeable ground cover at the Centre.
• In order to reduce watering requirements the Centre is minimizing non-native plants.
• Over 225 ultra low flush toilets have been installed. A policy has been put in place to replace remaining old models with low flush models as they fail.
• Touch-less water saving washroom faucets, low flow showerheads, and sink aerators have been installed.
• Modifications have been made to processes in film and print making areas in order to reduce the use of water and hazardous chemicals.
• Two waterless urinals have been installed in Physical Facilities.
• New high efficiency front load washers are being used in guest and staff accommodation to reduce water and electricity consumption.
• The Centre’s Hospitality division encourages guests to re-use bed linens and towels in order to reduce the amount of linens being washed.

Saving fuel

• The Health, Security, and Safety department has reduced their fuel consumption by using a Ford Escape Hybrid as a patrol vehicle. The Escape has a conventional gasoline motor and an electric motor that work together to power the vehicle.

• Walking, pedaling, public transportations systems, and carpooling are encouraged for staff, guests, and participants.

» Mike Geisler from the Centre’s Health, Safety, & Security department admires the engine of the Centre’s new Ford Escape Hybrid. Photo by Brandy Dahrouge

Efficient mechanical systems

• Building-specific energy management plans have been implemented to conserve water, gas, and electricity.
• Separate utility meters have been installed in individual buildings at the Centre in order to effectively measure and manage utility usage.
• A Direct Digital Control system has been put in place in order to more efficiently manage and control temperature and air flow in all buildings on campus from one central location.
• When they require replacement, pumps and motors throughout campus are replaced with energy efficient units.

Bio-diesel

The Centre is using bio-diesel fuel to run a diesel-fueled bobcat and two tractors. Bio-diesel is a clean burning alternative to petroleum and is produced from domestic, renewable resources.

» Mark Fuller, manager of Building Trades
and Grounds, in front of a fuel tank
filled with biodiesel. Photo by Brandy Dahrouge.

LEED certification

The Banff Centre is seeking Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for all new buildings that are part of the Revitalization project. LEED is a standard established by the U.S. Green Building Council and endorsed by the Canada Green Building Council that encourages a careful analysis of proposed buildings with respect to site selection, water and energy efficient design, selection of building materials, and consideration of indoor environmental quality. The net impact will be a reduction in the Centre’s overall energy consumption.

Wind credits

Electricity and travel are necessary in order to present the Banff Mountain Film Festival and the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour. Mountain Culture tries to use only what they need and purchases wind energy credits from the Pembina Institute to offset the carbon emissions from the festivals in Banff and from tour travel throughout Canada and the U.S.