Langara College is committed to protecting and enhancing the environment for future generations, and using and managing its own physical environment in ways that lead to sustainability. In an effort to increase environmental awareness, increase energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, Langara College embarked on an Energy Management program, with assistance from the federal Office of Energy Efficiency. The college became a member of the Energy Innovators Initiative in 1998.

An energy retrofit program was implemented throughout the college facilities in 2000 and 2001. Measures that improved energy efficiency included:

• Lighting system upgrades, including installation of compact fluorescent systems, electronic ballasts, T-8 lighting and occupancy sensors
• Building weatherization
• Energy management control systems
• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning upgrades including the installation of variable air volumes and building automation controls
• Comprehensive staff training and awareness programs

Together, these measures are responsible for a 13.5% decrease in electricity consumption and an 10.5% decrease in natural gas use from year 2000 levels, totaling an annual cost savings of more than $70,000. This translates into a total annual energy savings of approximately 6,900 Gigajoules.

Langara's efforts to become more energy efficient have made it a leader in greenhouse gas reduction in the college sector. In recognition of the college's results, it was presented with a national Leadership Award from Canada's Climate Change Voluntary Challenge and Registry on April 1, 2004.

Over the past three years, Langara has continued efforts to reduce energy and improve efficiency, assembling an Energy Team to develop and implement new initiatives. The Team includes concerned employees, as well as an outside Energy Consultant.

For more information, contact Jay Strachan at (604) 323-5611 or jstrachan@langara.bc.ca.