The Aquatic Ecosystems Research Laboratory (AERL) is a four story, 6,000 m facility that serves as an interdisciplinary research facility at the University of British Columbia for The UBC Fisheries Centre The Institute for Resources Environment and Sustainability The BC Fisheries Research Unit Completed in 2006 AERL features a state-of-the-art Immersion Laboratory that simulates real-time underwater and coastal habitats. The Canada Green Building Council has awarded LEED-BC Gold Certification to UBC-AERL. A large central atrium acts as a natural ventilation stack and eliminates the need for mechanical ventilation systems. In the summer, concrete surfaces are naturally cooled in the evening, providing radiant cooling for the upper three floors during the day. Thanks to the efforts of AERL staff and student volunteers, this is the only facility on the UBC Point Grey campus to have a building-wide composting program. READ MORE