Lakeridge Logistics Centre (LLC), developed by Pure Industrial, has officially become the largest industrial property in Canada to earn the Zero-Carbon Building (ZCB) Design certification.

The certification marks a significant milestone in sustainable development for the country’s industrial real estate sector.

Awarded by the Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC), the ZCB certification recognizes new builds and major renovations that meet the highest standards in energy efficiency and carbon reduction.

Located in Ajax, Ont., a rapidly expanding industrial hub east of Toronto, LLC spans 1.2 million square feet. The facility boasts direct visibility from Highway 401 and is designed to meet the modern logistical demands of today’s businesses while sharply reducing environmental impact, according to Pure.

“We built Lakeridge Logistics Centre with our customers’ needs top of mind,” said David Owen, president of Pure Industrial. “With its strategic location and state-of-the-art features including ZCB-design certification and related efficiencies for our customers, this facility offers significant advantages for businesses seeking a competitive edge in the [Greater Toronto Area.]”

Among the property’s sustainability features are a high-performance building envelope, ultra-efficient mechanical systems, and onsite solar power designed to offset a portion of the building’s energy needs. It also supports alternative transportation methods such as public transit, biking, and electric vehicles, and includes a fully integrated building-automation system (BAS) for enhanced energy management.

“Lakeridge Logistics Centre’s Zero Carbon Building Design certification demonstrates the growing demand for low-carbon industrial real estate and the business case for energy-efficient, electrified buildings,” said Mark Hutchinson, senior vice-president of green building programs and innovation for CAGBC. “As one of the largest industrial projects to achieve this certification, it sets a strong precedent for how industrial developments can reduce emissions while enhancing asset value, improving operational efficiency, and supporting Canada’s transition to a net-zero economy.”

Ben Sykes, Principal at Avison Young, echoed that sentiment. Avison Young represents Pure at LLC.

“This remarkable building sets the sustainability standard of the future for industrial properties in the Greater Toronto Area and across Canada,” said Sykes.

Future-ready infrastructure is central to LLC’s design, with features that include increased electrical capacity for ongoing electrification, a solar-ready roof primed for expansion, and fully electrified heating systems designed to withstand future carbon taxes and regulatory shifts.

Pictured: Lakeridge Logistics Centre in Ajax, Ont.

Image: Courtesy of Avison Young

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