the

sustainable
SUBURBAN
LIVING LAB
NEW Active-Working Lab focussed on Experiential Learning
and Outdoor Research
https://www.sustainablelivinglab.info
The SLAB supports outdoor research and educational activities related to
ecology, landscape architecture, agriculture, conservation, horticulture and
sustainability. Located in Valley in a suburban corner lot, the sustainable
landscape draws inspiration from Nova Scotia’s rst Net-Zero home built to
PassiveHaus construction and energy ef ciency standards.

Recently completed, the entire site now is a lab for experimenting with new
ideas, new technologies, prototyping, and climate-positive alternatives to living
more consciously and aware of the every day decisions we make. The site
intends to foster research collaborations and support scholarly and educational
activities. Current projects include native transplantings and biodiversity
plantings, recycled material patio, soil remediation, rainwater recycling and
reuse, pollinator gabions, stormwater channels, Acadian reforestation,
meditation gardens, and more.

A series of proposed projects intend to showcase these values and extend these
ideas to the larger community, ultimately adding to knowledge, evidence, and the
practical application of sustainable living principles. The goal of this indoor/
outdoor research facility is to advance our understanding of the natural
environment in urbanising, suburban landscapes and create an active culture of
sustainability and environmental stewardship.

2023/2024 PROJECTS for STUDENTS and CLASSES to CONSIDER

All projects are funded for the materials and will include paid student stipends

Shed Living Roof for Biodiversity

140sf with off-site constructed boxes to be placed on at sloped roof.

Raised Vegetable and Flower Beds through HugelKulture

Ameliorate poor soil and drainage through debris mounds and planting mounds.

Acadian Reforestation and Successional Transplanting

Regional and on-site transplanting. Focus on ferns and proper habitat creation.

Suburban Drainage Ditch Improvements in Natural Plantings and Water Design

Grading with strategic stone and plant placements.
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