UBC opens carbon-minimal Third Space Commons

The University of British Columbia has opened a new carbon-minimal building called Third Space Commons, which was designed and built by a student team. Third Space Commons, which will be used as a sustainability living lab and a flexible collaboration space, was designed to emit nearly zero carbon emissions during construction. The team focused on reusing materials, sourcing low-embodied carbon materials, and opting for materials and construction techniques that lowered or captured carbon emissions. Civil engineering student and engineering lead Agustina Flores Pitton said that the building can also be an example for the construction industry. “I think that if students can do it, with obviously a lot of partnerships and support along the way, then the industry for sure can accomplish something similar,” said Flores Pitton.