The Eco-Pavilion, located in Strathcona Community Garden, has the distinction of being the first public building in Vancouver to be granted a permit for the use of environmentally sustainable energy and waste treatment systems. The project was a collaboration of the Environmental Youth Alliance (EYA), the Strathcona Community Garden Association, BARE Architects, and Youth Services Canada. It was constructed in 1997 by a group of young women who gained valuable building experience through their work on the project. 

The building’s environmentally-friendly features include:

• use of selectively harvested and recycled wood from Gabriola Island and Wildwood Forest on Vancouver Island to reduce pressure on old growth forests;.
  
• use of photovoltaic cells for all lighting and electrical needs to reduce energy related emissions;
  
• recycling of grey water from sinks through a gravel and aquatic plant purification system to reduce water consumption, allow watering during drought periods, and capture of nutrients for plant growth;
  
• use of a composting toilet to convert human waste into fertilizer for the surrounding gardens, while reducing waste going off site and conserving water.

By utilizing environmentally sustainable technologies, the Eco-Pavilion is leading the way to a clean, green future.