UBC Sauder School of Business
Exploring Low-Carbon Structural Innovation for Higher Education
An in-depth case study exploring conventional and emerging structural strategies to minimize embodied carbon while maintaining performance and cost-efficiency
Image credit: Patkau Architects, ACTON OSTRY
reLoad’s Role:
Building Embodied Carbon Consultant
LEED wbLCA Credit
Case Study Lead – 50% Embodied Carbon Reduction to inform Policy
Project Size: 13,150 m²
Project Category: Educational / Institutional
Location: UBC Campus Vancouver, BC
Client: UBC Properties Trust
Architect: Patkau Architects, Acton Ostry Architects
3D Visualization of UBC Sauder School of Business Powerhouse Expansion project, courtesy of ACTON OSTRY + Patkau Architects, rendered by Mute Images.
Data-Driven, Collaborative, and Environmentally Informed
The UBC Sauder School of Business Powerhouse Expansion investigates innovative approaches to low-carbon structural design for higher education facilities. The study evaluates a spectrum of options—from minor adjustments to traditional methods to emerging solutions such as mass timber, BubbleDeck®, hybrid systems, and low-carbon concrete and steel—analyzing both embodied carbon and cost implications.
reLoad Sustainable led the case study and whole-building life cycle assessment (wbLCA), providing construction embodied carbon guidance and supporting LEED wbLCA credit documentation. Our analysis established a detailed carbon baseline, enabling the design team to make data-driven decisions on material selection, structural layouts, and design strategies that optimize sustainability without compromising performance.
Key outcomes highlighted opportunities to reduce embodied carbon significantly through hybrid and low-carbon material choices, while demonstrating how thoughtful structural design can support both operational efficiency and environmental stewardship.
As a publicly shared study, this project sets a precedent for low-carbon, resilient design in academic buildings, providing a roadmap for future campus developments.
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