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Back to SearchSupported by a $1 million contribution from the Government of Canada’s Low Carbon Economy Fund, the project has modernized CHEO’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems and introduced new energy-saving technology.
These upgrades improve indoor air quality for patients, families, and staff, as well as better cooling for the warmer months, while significantly reducing the hospital’s environmental footprint.
At CHEO, better air quality is directly linked to better health outcomes. The upgrades include a new energy recovery system and redesigned ventilation that brings in more fresh air while using less energy. This helps create a more comfortable and supportive environment for children and youth receiving care.
The project is a major step forward in CHEO’s sustainability efforts with new systems helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 2,500 tonnes each year, roughly equivalent to the annual energy use of more than 1,000 homes.
Reducing energy use also allows us to invest more in patient care. This is in line with a growing commitment across the health system to take climate action while continuing to provide high-quality care.
“Creating healthier environments is an important part of how we care for kids. These upgrades are an investment in the health of children and youth now, and in a more sustainable future for the generations that follow," said Dr. Vera Etches, President and CEO of CHEO.
“By supporting organizations such as CHEO, we are making operating costs more affordable for our important public health sector. Helping hospitals implement these kinds of changes is simply common sense. Through the Low-Carbon Economy Fund, our government is once again showing that it is working hand in hand with its partners to build a more resilient and sustainable economy, for the benefit of everyone,” said the Hon. Julie Dabrusin, Canada’s Minister of the Environment, Climate Change, and Nature.
“Strong public institutions should lead by example. By improving the energy efficiency of facilities like CHEO, we’re reducing emissions, lowering operating costs, and creating healthier spaces for children, families, and the dedicated professionals who care for them every day. Investments like this strengthen our communities today while helping build a more resilient Canada for the future," said the Hon. David McGuinty, Minister of National Defence and MP for Ottawa South, which includes CHEO.
CHEO is reimagining itself with a bold, 10-year redevelopment plan to build a future where every child and youth receives timely, quality care and where globally impactful research continues to enhance and improve clinical care.
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About CHEO
Based in Canada’s capital, CHEO is a globally renowned health institution with a mission to provide exceptional care and support to children, youth and their families. Opening our doors in 1974, we offer a full range of specialized pediatric care and services to children from eastern and northern Ontario, western Quebec and Nunavut. Our site is home to a hospital, a children’s treatment centre, a school, a research institute, and is affiliated with the University of Ottawa as an academic health science centre. We are home to more than 6,500 staff, clinicians, scientists and researchers, as well as volunteers – all of whom work together to help children and youth achieve their best lives.