Centre for Interactive Research on Sustainability (CIRS): Vancouver, BC, Canada

Test Lab for Sustainability

The Centre for Interactive Research on Sustainability (CIRS) aims to not only reduce impact on the environment, but improve the lives of its occupants and its community through net positive operation. The research institution at the University of British Columbia (UBC) is designed as a living laboratory to test sustainable building strategies and accelerate their adoption into urban development. As with any experiment, the primary goal is to learn from successes and failures alike, ultimately informing future sustainable designs. While the building has not yet reached its goals of net positive energy and water operation, researchers are sharing insights gained from its operation.