Sustainable transit stations pave the way ahead

Incorporating biophilic design and an abundance of environmentally-friendly design features, Canberra station is the first to be accorded the Platinum award under the Green Mark for Transit Stations scheme.

By BCA

Singapore’s rapid urban development will see the island’s rail network expand considerably over the next few decades, making it necessary for transit stations to be built as sustainably as possible to help reduce Singapore’s carbon footprint.

In the move towards building a more sustainable transit system and greener commuter experience for all, the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) has introduced a new addition to its suite of Green Mark schemes specifically for rail and light rail stations – The BCA Green Mark for Transit Stations.

As part of the efforts to mitigate the environmental impact of urbanisation, the new BCA Green Mark for Transit Stations scheme provides a holistic environmentally sustainable framework to help influence and transform the way stations are designed, built and operated.

The new Green Mark scheme was co-developed in consultation with Land Transport Authority (LTA) and industry practitioners to provide a holistic approach in evaluating and rating the environmental performance of station developments. Focusing on sustainable transit station design and functionality, the holistic framework helps to influence and transform the way stations are designed, built and operated. The criteria framework includes key sustainability indicators such as responsive urban design, energy performance and resource stewardship.

Mr Hugh Lim, Chief Executive Officer, BCA said, "BCA has been constantly reviewing and improving the Green Mark scheme to ensure that it remains relevant to the evolving needs of the people and the built environment. With the increasing demand for transit facilities, this new addition to the suite of Green Mark schemes will provide a holistic framework to enhance the sustainability of transit stations. We are glad to have LTA's support in the development of this new scheme as we continue to push for higher environmental sustainability standards, as part of Singapore's efforts to mitigate the environmental impact of urbanisation."

eatures at Canberra station such as daylighting within the platform provide commuters with better visual comfort.

Canberra station was the first to be awarded the Green Mark for Transit Stations Platinum award. The bustling North-South Line station incorporates biophilic design and an abundance of environmentally-friendly materials and products. Features such as edge planting, a green roof, vertical greenery and daylighting within the platform provide commuters with both thermal comfort and visual relief. Other green features include automatic dual speed escalators, an energy efficient lift system, LED lighting, water-efficient fittings and an irrigation system with rain sensors.

Given Singapore’s tropical weather and the potential effects of climate change including heavier rain, extra measures were also taken to protect against wind-driven rain. The station has been designed to minimise rain infiltration, while providing ample ventilation for the comfort of station commuters.

Following in Canberra’s footsteps, at least 50 more stations are in the pipeline to meet the Green Mark platinum standard.

Land Transport Authority Chief Executive Mr Ngien Hoon Ping said, "As part of our long-term vision to provide a transport network that is convenient and well-connected, we will be adding new stations to our existing network over the next few years. In tandem with our goal of improving rail connectivity, we are equally committed to implementing practices that promote environment sustainability throughout the planning, design and construction of our stations. The Green Mark Platinum certification for Canberra station shows our efforts are on the right track and encourages us to strengthen our efforts."