First Zero-Carbon Firehall Comes Up In Vancouver

The new firehall provides essential fire and rescue services and is also designed to be a post-disaster communications hub

The city of Vancouver has announced what it claims is the first zero-carbon firehall – providing essential fire and rescue services – in Canada. Located at 7070 Knight Street, the new firehall (Firehall 17) is the second largest training site for Vancouver Fire Rescue Services. The expanded building is also designed to be a post-disaster communications hub and fitted with equipment needed to keep the community connected in the event of a disaster.

Nearly 60 per cent of Vancouver’s carbon pollution comes from burning gas to heat buildings and hot water. The new firehall was constructed to a zero emissions standard and achieved LEED Gold certification and Net Zero Energy as defined by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. It also reports it is on track to achieve Passive House certification.

 “The new Firehall 17 is a leading example of the city’s innovative approach to meeting climate commitments while investing in our city and providing the services Vancouverites depend on. It is a demonstration we can make near zero-emissions buildings the new normal, while also helping to reduce energy and water consumption costs,” said Ken Sim, mayor of Vancouver. “This state-of-the-art firehall will also help train the next generation of firefighters, helping to keep Vancouver safe.”

“This state-of-the-art facility will ensure City of Vancouver is resilient to potential disasters,” added Karen Fry, fire chief and general manager of Vancouver Fire Rescue Services. “The new Firehall 17 is part of Vancouver Fire Rescue Services long-term fire hall plan and will meet service needs for the next few decades.”

Vancouver also recently celebrated its fourth Women4Climate Mentorship cohort. In 2019, Vancouver became the eighth city to launch a Women4Climate Mentorship Programme in collaboration with C40 Cities and in partnership with the Zero Emissions Innovation Centre. Since launching, Vancouver’s programme has supported 43 of some 500 global mentees, selecting local participants whose initiatives align with the city’s climate and equity goals.

“Our commitment to the W4C programme is deeply rooted in our city’s values of sustainability, innovation and leadership,” said mayor Ken Sim. “The dedication, brilliance, and unwavering commitment to a sustainable future from each of the mentors and mentees is an inspiration for us all. Together, we are not only taking steps to change the climate game, but we are setting a global standard for what’s possible when women lead.”