Caisse Desjardins du Plateau-Mont-Royal has just inaugurated a green rooftop terrace on its head office, marking a new milestone in its commitment to sustainable development.
This initiative is part of a broader series of concrete actions aimed at reducing its ecological footprint and inspiring the Montreal community to adopt greener practices.
In a bold move for urban environmentalism, Caisse Desjardins du Plateau-Mont-Royal recently unveiled a green rooftop terrace atop its main building on Mont-Royal Avenue East.
This new green space not only beautifies the urban landscape but also contributes to the building’s thermal regulation, reduces urban heat islands, and supports local biodiversity.
But the rooftop is just the tip of the iceberg.
For several years now, the Caisse has been multiplying its ecological initiatives.
Notably, it has transformed its head office by integrating low-carbon technologies and investing in renewable energy.
These efforts reflect a long-term cooperative vision where environmental impact is considered in every strategic decision.
Among other notable projects:
Partnerships with urban farms to promote local agriculture and short supply chains.
Support for environmental education programs in local schools.
Installation of electric vehicle charging stations near its facilities.
Active participation in eco-neighborhoods across the Plateau-Mont-Royal, particularly in the development of the Plateau-Est Green District.
These actions demonstrate that the ecological transition can be driven by local financial institutions working closely with their communities. Caisse Desjardins du Plateau-Mont-Royal thus positions itself as an inspiring model of social and environmental responsibility.
A Green Transformation
1. Solar Energy and Energy Efficiency
The building is now partially powered by rooftop photovoltaic solar panels, allowing it to generate a portion of its own electricity. This initiative supports energy autonomy and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
In parallel, smart energy management systems have been implemented: motion sensors for lighting, automated heating and cooling regulation, and enhanced thermal insulation. These measures significantly reduce the building’s energy consumption.
2. Sustainable Materials and Bioclimatic DesignThe head office renovation incorporated low-impact materials such as recycled insulation, low-VOC paints, and eco-certified flooring.
The building’s architecture was redesigned to maximize natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting.
3. Sustainable Mobility and Green InfrastructureElectric vehicle charging stations have been installed in the parking area, encouraging employees and visitors to adopt cleaner transportation. Secure bike storage and showers have also been added to support active commuting.
4. Water Management and Urban Biodiversity
The newly inaugurated green rooftop terrace is more than just aesthetic—it helps retain rainwater, reduce heat islands, and create a habitat for pollinators.
This project is part of a broader urban greening and climate resilience strategy.
The MicroHabitat Urban Farm
Installed on the rooftop terrace, the urban farm now hosts over 500 edible plants, providing food and shelter for nearly 150 species of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
The garden is expected to yield nearly 241 pounds (109.37 kg) of vegetables and edible plants annually. It absorbs up to 25% more CO₂ than traditional green spaces and reduces food transport emissions by up to 90%.
This garden serves the community, with all produce harvested in 2025 to be donated to the Grand Plateau’s collective kitchens.