Redefining Sustainable Healthcare: The Cowichan District Hospital Project
- rachelbowering
- Apr 10
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 17
At RGS Consultants, we believe that sustainability in healthcare design isn’t just about reducing emissions—it’s about creating resilient, healing environments that support both patients and the planet. That’s why I was thrilled to join the Changemaker Podcast with host Cherise and Shane Czypyha of Parkin Architects to discuss the Cowichan District Hospital Replacement Project (CDHRP).
This seven-story, 204-bed hospital in North Cowichan, BC, is more than just a new healthcare facility—it’s a groundbreaking model for the future of sustainable and culturally inclusive healthcare.
A Net-Zero Carbon First for Canadian Healthcare
CDHRP is BC’s first fully-electric hospital and Canada’s first healthcare facility to achieve CaGBC Zero Carbon Building certification. That means the hospital is designed not just for today’s climate, but for 2050 and beyond, ensuring long-term resilience and sustainability.
Key Sustainability Features:
✅ 100% electric—no fossil fuels burned onsite
✅ 75% reduction in GHG emissions
✅ Designed for future climate conditions (2050 & 2080 data)
✅ Salmon-Safe certification to protect local ecosystems
Honoring Indigenous Culture in Healthcare Design
From the outset, this project has been developed with and for Indigenous communities. The hospital’s design reflects a deep commitment to cultural inclusion and traditional healing practices, ensuring Indigenous patients feel a sense of belonging and safety in their care environment.
Key Cultural Integration Elements:🔥 185 patient rooms equipped to support traditional healing practices, including burning ceremonies🏥 Ts’uwtun (Sow-tun) security area—renamed in Hul’q’umi’num to reflect a welcoming "greeter" role🎨 Extensive Indigenous art program to enhance healing and connection🌿 Culturally significant indoor and outdoor spaces designed in collaboration with Indigenous Nations
An Innovative Approach to Collaboration
The Cowichan District Hospital Replacement Project is also setting new industry standards in collaborative project delivery. The team embraced a Collaborative Alliance Contract Model, one of the first of its kind in North America, which ensures that the Owner, Architect, and Builder share risks and rewards—eliminating blame culture and fostering true partnership.
Listen to the Full Podcast
I’m proud to be part of a project that demonstrates what’s possible when sustainability, innovation, and cultural inclusion are prioritized in healthcare design.
Want to learn more? Tune in to my conversation on the Changemaker Podcast to hear how we’re helping shape the future of sustainable healthcare.
🎧 Listen now: https://www.arcat.com/podcast/164
We’d love to hear your thoughts—how do you see sustainability shaping the future of healthcare? Let us know in the comments or reach out to discuss how RGS Consultants can help bring sustainability to your next project.
Comentários