Sustainability Report

The Markham College Elementary School is currently pursuing LEED Silver certification.

A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) determined a total carbon footprint of 427.26 kg CO2e/m² over a 60-year period, aligning with the performance targets set by LEED v4 for whole-building life cycle impact reduction. This outcome demonstrates the school’s dedication to the environment and its commitment to creating a sustainable educational setting for future generations. While no baseline comparison is publicly stated, this figure aligns with best-practice targets for low-carbon schools.

The school has adopted a comprehensive approach to minimising its carbon footprint and promoting environmental sustainability. Strategies focused on material reuse and waste reduction during construction, including the recovery of existing elements and the use of products with recycled content and recognised environmental certifications.

Natural and local materials include bamboo, in-situ concrete, cork, linoleum, and local woods.

Sustainability highlights

• The school’s passive design optimises natural ventilation, daylighting, and solar control, significantly reducing energy demand. 
• The architecture dissolves the boundary between interior and exterior spaces, through terraces, vertical gardens, inner courtyards, and green roofs, creating a climate-adapted learning landscape — this harnesses Lima’s mild weather to reduce reliance on mechanical systems.
• Classrooms and communal areas are arranged to maximise access to outdoor learning spaces throughout the year, reducing the need for artificial lighting and climate control.
• Highly efficient HVAC systems use eco-friendly refrigerants with low global warming potential (GWP), minimising long-term environmental impact. 
• The project includes EV chargers, helping to reduce the environmental impact of occupant transportation. 
• The installation of water-saving fixtures and sanitary appliances contributes to significant potable water conservation.