Introducing ActiveScore 

Over the years, various global building certifications and rating systems have emerged, each focusing on different aspects of sustainability, energy efficiency, and environmental performance. Some of the most well-known certifications include LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method), WELL Building Standard, GRESB (Global ESG Benchmark for Real Assets), Fitwel, and others.

In today’s world, with sustainability and active living taking center stage in global consciousness, the significance of facilities that promote and support active commuting has reached unprecedented levels. ActiveScore, which advocates for environmentally friendly and physically engaging forms of transportation, delivers advantages that extend beyond individual well-being to the betterment of the planet. Acknowledging this, ActiveScore’s core objective is to encourage buildings to welcome those who opt for active commuting, thereby playing a vital role in fostering a cleaner, more eco-conscious, and healthier future for all.

7 Key Benefits of ActiveScore

1. ActiveScore stands out as it is the only internationally-recognized real estate standard that is tailored for active travel.
2. Boosts your organization’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) profile, aligning it with sustainable practices.
3. The standard applies to both new and existing buildings. So whether your building is in the planning phase or has been around for years, ActiveScore certification can be applied.
4. ActiveScore’s standards align with other green certifications that can earn your building credits for other green certifications like WELL, BREEAM, LEED, and GRESB.
5. The evaluation standards are customized to go beyond the minimum requirements set by local urban planning regulations and infrastructure standards. This ensures that the active travel amenities in your building not only comply with but surpass the community’s expectations and demands.
6. Thoughtfully-designed active travel amenities can have a transformative impact on your building as more and more tenants are seeking workplaces that have micro-mobility facilities.
7. Certified green buildings often command higher rents, making ActiveScore certification an investment with long-term financial benefits.

​Active travel is not merely a trend; it’s a forward-thinking approach to workplace design with far-reaching benefits. By incorporating features like bike parking and bike racks, shower facilities, storage lockers, and change rooms, companies can create a healthier, more sustainable, and attractive workplace. The positive effects extend beyond employee well-being to environmental stewardship, cost savings, and even improved company culture. Embracing active design is a win-win for both employees and employers, contributing to a more productive and fulfilled workforce.

As summer approaches, the allure of travel beckons us. This year, you might be embracing the spirit of local exploration and discover the hidden treasures right here in Ontario. By choosing to travel locally, not only can you save money and be sustainable, but you also have the opportunity to support local business and regenerative practices by preserving nature and culture.

Sustainable and Budget-Friendly Adventures. Traveling locally not only reduces your carbon footprint but also saves money. Ontario offers a plethora of outdoor adventures, including hiking trails, national parks, and conservation areas. Explore the stunning beauty of places like Algonquin Provincial Park, Bruce Peninsula National Park, or the Thousand Islands. While visiting, consider joining volunteer programs focused on conservation and ecological restoration, where you can contribute to regenerative practices firsthand, helping protect and restore the environment for future generations.

Supporting Regenerative Practices. To fully embrace regenerative practices, consider eco-friendly accommodations and sustainable tourism initiatives. Stay at charming eco-lodges or farm stays that follow regenerative principles, such as Bon Eco Suites in Tamworth or eco-cabins at Grail Springs Retreat Centre in Bancroft. Engage in organic farming, permaculture, and regenerative agriculture experiences, immersing yourself in the regenerative lifestyle while supporting local communities.

Immersing in Indigenous Culture and History. Ontario is rich with Indigenous culture and history, offering opportunities to learn, connect, and support Indigenous communities. Visit the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation and participate in workshops, traditional teachings, and guided tours. Experience the vibrant Powwows held in various communities, where you can witness indigenous dances, music, and crafts. Connect with local indigenous artists and artisans, learning about their unique traditions, connection to the land, and contribute directly to indigenous businesses.

Culinary Explorations and Local Delights. Embark on a gastronomic journey through Ontario’s local food scene, indulging in farm-to-table experiences and supporting local producers. Visit farmer’s markets and food festivals, savoring the flavors of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and delectable baked goods. Experience indigenous cuisine, exploring traditional dishes infused with cultural significance. Enjoy a picnic with fresh, seasonal produce or visit vineyards and breweries to savor Ontario’s renowned wines and craft beers. By supporting local businesses and farmers, you contribute to sustainable and regenerative practices while relishing in mouthwatering delights.

Community Engagement and Volunteering. In your travels, consider giving back to the local communities you visit. Engage in volunteer activities like beach cleanups, tree planting initiatives, or community projects. Participate in cultural exchange programs or learn traditional skills from local artisans. By actively engaging with the community, you foster meaningful connections, leave a positive impact, and gain a deeper appreciation for the places you visit.

This summer, let Ontario be your playground for sustainable, budget-friendly, and culturally rich travel experiences. From hiking in pristine wilderness to immersing in indigenous culture, the possibilities for meaningful exploration are endless. Celebrate the beauty and diversity of your own province while making a positive impact on the communities you encounter along the way.

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As a way to celebrate 20 years of excellence at Premier, President Dave Wade is reflecting on some interesting situations on projects and how Premier has always remained innovative in solving problems for clients.

A long way back, in 2004, we were tasked with setting up a vapour extraction system to pull residual non-chlorinated volatile organic compounds (VOCs) out of the soil below a former historic paint manufacturing facility. 

At the time it was difficult to find an “off-the-shelf” system to accomplish the task, so we hired a local contractor and together sourced out welders, machinists, electrical technicians and built our own system.  The saturated vapour knockout tank was made of welded thick gauge steel, way too cumbersome and heavy by todays’ standard, but it worked and it served its purpose well.  The blower fan was about the only off-the-shelf product used, while the control board and piping (PVC monitoring well materials) were a very basic design, and made by the team.  Overall, the system accomplished what it was designed to do and the client was satisfied with the end result.  

Today, soil vapour extraction (SVE) systems have become common, the remediation technology is well recognized and can be implemented with standard off-the-shelf equipment.  They continue to be used to extract various chlorinated solvents and hydrocarbons from the ground.  Typically, SVE systems are installed in situations where a minimum of site disturbance is a requirement, such as in the area of existing buildings that are to remain in place.

Another similar technology, the passive and/or active soil vapour venting system, is placed beneath the slab of a building and collection piping vents the gases up and out the roof.  In some instances, this technology is used as an environmental control measure as part of a Risk Assessment (RA).

While we don’t fancy ourselves as system designers, we are always willing to take on a challenge and help solve a problem for our clients.

While 2020 will go down as one of the worst years on record, there sure were a lot of positive occurrences at Premier Environmental Services Inc.

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Every month, our team will be sharing a few of our favourite things related to sustainability and wellness. Here is the August edition!

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When youth are given the opportunity to learn, we accelerate progress towards climate action, and help reduce poverty and gender inequality.

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