[ARTICLE] International Sustainability in Vancouver, B.C. and China

by Jacob Chan, P.E., LEED AP

Symantec project in Chengdu, China

Architect: Gensler San Francisco

Engineering & Commissioning Services: Glumac

The GreenLink conference was, according to event host Reboot Communications, “the first of its kind to bring together the top names in the world in four major areas: investment, technology, governance and sustainable design." The conference provided a unique opportunity to interact with the people “who are funding these projects as well as the masterminds behind the newest green technologies, award-winning developers, and the key decision-makers on government policy." The speakers this year included architects, engineers, a minister from the providence of B.C., the Mayor of Vancouver, and the president of Canada Green Building Council.

The closing keynote speaker was Dr. David Suzuki, an award-winning scientist, environmentalist, and broadcaster. He was the recipient of the Right Livelihood Award in 2009, which has also been called the "Alternative Nobel Prize."Jacob remarks, "One of the highlights of the conference was hearing Dr. Suzuki speak. His talk, which focused on his work in sustainable ecology, explained complex scientific concepts in a compelling and humorous manner that was easy to understand."

While the GreenLink conference in Vancouver focused on gaining an entire picture of sustainable design through various professionals’ experience and insight, China is leading by example by adapting to and embracing the increasing demand for energy efficient buildings and cities.

Glumac’s international building portfolio includes projects in Seoul, Korea; Mumbai, India; and Chengdu, Shanghai and Wuxi, China. Jacob reflects upon his experience working in Asia over the past several years: "I have noticed that within the construction industry in various countries, peoples’ needs and culture may differ, but their desire for quality is universal."

The Chinese central government provides much of the energy research needed to create efficient projects, as well as a strong focus and drive towards sustainability. For example, the recently completed city developments in Guangdong and Fujian prominently feature energy conservation measures, including rainwater harvesting and local materials, seamlessly integrated with the surrounding landscapes. The developments’ building supplies also embrace the three R’s: reduce, reuse, and recycle.

The central and local Chinese governments are leading their country in pursuing a revolutionary new industry of sustainable construction. The market is responding quickly and positively, and we see many energy efficient buildings are completed in a very short time. Understanding this new movement is essential to Glumac’s international expansion.

As emphasized by the GreenLink conference and China’s enthusiasm to produce efficiently modern cities, the race in sustainable expansion has begun in earnest on a global scale. There is no finish line for this competition, but there is clearly a winning place for Glumac to be a contributor in building a better world.