Parkin is proud to be part of the Nuts’a’maat Alliance in delivering the future Cowichan District Hospital, which has become Canada’s first hospital to achieve the Zero Carbon Building – Design Standard™ certification from the Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC). This achievement is a significant step forward in sustainable healthcare design, setting a new benchmark for environmentally responsible hospital infrastructure.
Hospitals are among the most energy-intensive buildings, requiring 24/7 operation to support critical patient care. The new Cowichan District Hospital will significantly reduce its environmental impact through:
✅ A fully electric system, eliminating reliance on fossil fuels
✅ On-site renewable energy, with rooftop solar panels supplying a portion of energy needs
✅ Low-carbon materials, including concrete, mass timber, and insulation elements
✅ High-performance building envelope, maximizing energy efficiency
✅ Advanced water conservation and waste reduction strategies
✅ LED lighting, consuming 75% less energy than traditional bulbs
✅ Low global warming potential refrigerants, minimizing emissions from mechanical systems
This certification recognizes the project’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions, optimizing energy efficiency, and promoting climate resilience while ensuring world-class patient care. It aligns with Island Health’s goal to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 50% from 2010 levels by 2030, reinforcing sustainability as a core value in healthcare infrastructure.
We extend our congratulations to Island Health, EllisDon Corporation, BC Infrastructure Benefits, Infrastructure BC, and the entire project team for this remarkable accomplishment. At Parkin, we remain dedicated to designing future-forward healthcare facilities that integrate sustainability, innovation, and exceptional patient experiences.
Learn more about the Cowichan District Hospital Replacement Project at Island Health’s website.