With a bold vision for sustainability, the TELUS Ocean Building in Victoria, British Columbia, is pursuing multiple high-impact green building certifications that reflect its commitment to climate action, ecological responsibility, and occupant well-being.

The building itself is inspired by the bow of a ship—apt considering its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and Victoria’s rich maritime history. The design includes extensive landscaping to drive home this coastal feel with, water features, wood benches, and paver decks surrounding the building.

Sustainability in Action

The TELUS Ocean Building is targeting LEED Platinum certification, and Zero-Carbon Building Standard – Design certification. To achieve these certifications, the design and project teams have:

• Diverted over 95% of construction and demolition waste from landfills; 
• Reduced indoor and outdoor water use through efficient landscaping and irrigation systems, and by installing low-flow fixtures and water-efficient appliances; 
• Installed high-efficiency HVAC systems to reduce operational energy use; 
• Used low-carbon concrete and other responsibly sourced materials to help reduce embodied carbon; and
• Incorporated design elements that encourage physical activity, allow access to daylight, and promote mental well-being through a connection to nature.

Protecting Endangered Species

Unique to the OceanBuilding is British Columbia’s Salmon-Safe Certification. Salmon-Safe Certification is a third-party program that recognizes practices that specifically protect the various endangered species of salmon on the West Coast.

To qualify for this certification, EllisDon:

• Focused on excavation and shoring work that accounted for significant contamination in the soil; 
• Undertook strict water treatment and management procedures to ensure local salmon habitats and populations were protected from construction; and
• Incorporated landscaping that supports biodiversity and aligns with Salmon-Safe principles.

“This project exemplifies how sustainability in our projects is intentional and unique to every project. EllisDon is always looking for that next frontier in sustainability, especially when it affects our impact on the environment,” said Pablo Lopez Arbelaez, Project Manager, Sustainable Building Solutions, EllisDon. “Sustainability isn’t rote for us—it's intentional and it’s unique to every project.”

EllisDon aims for certifications that show its commitment to sustainable construction, minimizing environmental impact and protecting ecosystems. Through responsible sourcing, energy-efficient designs, and habitat restoration, we are dedicated to building a greener future. 

A New Benchmark in Sustainability

TELUS Ocean is more than just a building—it's a commitment to integrating sustainability with respect for the environment and community. This project sets a new standard for green development in Canada, showcasing how buildings can be both high-performing and human-centered.