Circularity in Your City

The Meadowvale Community Centre and Library located in Mississauga, Ontario is a product of the city’s updated Green Development Standard to combat climate change. The centre is LEED Silver-certified, with a pedestrian plaza at the front of the building, and a connecting path to the back of the building, allowing community residents to enjoy adjacent Lake Aquitaine’s surrounding walking trail. The building has a coloured brise-soleil which shades the building during Summer, green roofing to address the heat island effect, permeable paving and bioswales to divert and retain storm water while removing debris and pollution as it travels down Lake Aquitaine. In spring, native and drought-resistant plant species are found all around the area, enriching the habitat for local wildlife. The building boasts a library, aquatics facility, gymnasium, fitness rooms, and an outdoor sports court, providing options to satisfy physical, intellectual and social needs. Circularity is possible – let’s champion it.

By Sheila B Chu, Canada