A model for holistic, closed-loop design, Dockside Green functions as a total environmental system in which form, structure, materials, mechanical and electrical systems interrelate and are interdependent – a largely self-sufficient, sustainable community where waste from one area will provide food for another. This is a dynamic environment where residents, employees, neighbouring businesses and the broader community interact in a healthy and safe environment, reclaimed from disuse and contamination.
As a LEED® Platinum-targeted project, Dockside Green’s principles of New Urbanism, smart growth, green building and sustainable community design are all essential elements of the development plan.
The development plan emphasizes the creation of healthy and inclusive community that supports new economic opportunities and a high quality of life with minimal impact to the environment.
An integrated approach to design has been adopted, tailoring it specifically to the Dockside lands and the Victoria West community, recognizing the need to apply integrated design principles to the whole site – not just individual components and characteristics. A holistic, closed-loop design approach is the only way to enhance synergies and achieve our sustainability goals.
We strive to move the concept of whole-system costing beyond building design to include site and community infrastructure costs. For example, a sound green building strategy like ecological stormwater management will reduce infrastructure costs, while reducing the emission of greenhouse gases and heat-island effects, creating natural habitat and improving human health. Our ability to exploit whole-system thinking will be critical to our success: ecologically, socially and financially.
Our development plan creates opportunities for specific functions and systems to feed off each other, embracing the principle of “waste is food”. In other words, waste resulting from one use can provide fuel for together uses. By implementing holistic, closed-loop thinking and design principles, we can improve and potentially compound Dockside Green’s economic, environmental and livability dividends.