Sustainability Report

The extensive use of wood in the construction of Camp Mercier pavilion significantly reduces the project’s carbon footprint compared to conventional construction materials like concrete or steel. The wood is locally sourced and renewable, making it a sustainable choice. One cubic metre of wood stores approximately 700 kilograms of carbon.

Camp Mercier’s design incorporates a number of low-carbon strategies.

• Energy efficiency and thermal performance: The building’s insulated concrete floor slab provides high thermal inertia, stabilising indoor temperatures and reducing heating needs.
• Renewable energy: Heating is provided by a biomass system using locally sourced forest residue, replacing the previous fossil fuel-based system.
• Glazing: Large glazed openings maximise natural light, reducing the reliance on artificial lighting.
• Waste reduction and durability: Construction details were carefully designed to enhance the longevity of the envelope components, minimising maintenance and replacement needs over time.
• EV: The project includes electric vehicle charging stations, supporting sustainable transportation and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
• Locally sourced materials: The project prioritises the use of locally sourced and minimally processed materials. Structural elements are built in fir, pine, and spruce, and spruce cladding is used on exterior and interior surfaces. There is an abundance of these wood types in Quebec. Exterior stone paving is also locally sourced, reducing transportation emissions and enhancing site integration.
• Natural water infiltration: Permeable parking areas support natural water infiltration, reducing run-off, and promoting sustainable stormwater management.

Camp Mercier’s design is deeply connected to nature, enhancing user well-being through biophilic and passive design principles.

• Framing nature: Communal spaces feature large openings oriented towards the outdoor living area and surrounding forest, reinforcing the connection between indoor and outdoor environments.
• Avian protection: Screen-printed glass surfaces feature a white dot pattern resembling falling snow, preventing bird collisions while maintaining transparency.
• Passive design strategies: The pavilion’s orientation and volumetric design optimise solar exposure for the outdoor living area, provide protection from the prevailing wind, and minimise noise pollution from a nearby road.
• Material harmony: The extensive use of locally sourced wood establishes a natural continuity with the northern boreal forest, ensuring the building blends seamlessly into the landscape. The dark-stained exterior echoes the bark of coniferous trees, while the lighter interior enhances warmth and comfort.