Earth Day: Students tackle sustainability with data

Real-world learning meets sustainability goals.

Under the guidance of Patricia Baker, Director of Energy and Sustainability, and Monica Nguyen, Faculty Researcher and Instructor in the Data Analytics Post-Degree Diploma program, the project involved four second-year international students: Jinghao (Adam) Chen, Diego Iturbe Diaz, Sandra Enubuzor, and Phuc Pham Thien Nguyen.

Each student brought unique skills and cultural perspectives to the table, creating a dynamic collaboration. "Bringing together diverse skill sets and perspectives is essential for tackling the complexities of sustainability," says Baker.

This hands-on project helped students build advanced technical skills, improve communication across cultures, and develop solutions that address real energy challenges.

An award-winning presentation.

The project was recently presented at Langara's Applied Research Day, where it received the award for Student-involved project that highlights innovation/innovative practices.

"This real-world example of how Langara is advancing a low-carbon future is remarkable,” says Alexandra Turnbull from Prism Engineering. “The integration of sustainability into education and campus culture is a vital step forward."

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Using AI and analytics for real change.

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Heatmapping dashboard developed by Langara students.The student team conducted an in-depth analysis of building energy data and designed a solution to help inform upgrades to the B Building to improve efficiency, which is part of a wider Net Zero greenhouse gas roadmap. Their work involved identifying HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) inefficiencies and visualizing energy consumption patterns.

One key innovation? AI-powered forecasts that improve efficiencies. As Diego explains, "Our current HVAC management approach is based on reacting rather than predicting. By using data from the previous hour, we can now forecast the next 15 minutes and optimize settings in real-time, resulting in potential energy savings of 20 to 37%."

Sandra adds, "This project has shown us how powerful data can be in making real changes. It’s exciting to see our work translate into potential energy savings for the College."

"Data analytics has been crucial in identifying sustainability improvements,” notes Nguyen. “This hands-on experience equips students with the skills to apply data-driven insights to real-world problems."

Preparing students for careers in data and sustainability.

This project illustrates how applied research and classroom learning come together at Langara to drive meaningful outcomes, both for students and the environment.

Turnbull praises the students' work: "Seeing how data analysis and machine learning can predict future temperature trends was inspiring. The insights they provided are applicable to other buildings seeking energy efficiency solutions."

Nguyen emphasizes that the opportunity for students to engage with real data sets and industry partners gives them a strong foundation for future careers. "This project allowed students to engage with real-world challenges and develop practical solutions that benefit both their education and the College's sustainability goals."

Phuc reflects, "Working with my teammates from different backgrounds has enriched my understanding and made our solutions more comprehensive.”

Jinghao adds, "This project has not only taught us technical skills but also how to communicate effectively within a diverse team, which is crucial in today’s workplace."

A more sustainable future.

As Langara College continues its journey toward decarbonizing campus operations, projects like this one show how applied research can contribute to real-world impact. "We want to support meaningful understanding of sustainability, one project at a time," says Baker.

This commitment to integrating sustainability into both learning and operations not only enriches the student experience but also reflects Langara’s role as a leader in sustainable education in Vancouver.

Want to turn data into action?

Langara’s Data Analytics Post-Degree Diploma program gives you the tools to solve real-world problems using data, AI, and hands-on learning. Whether you want to work in sustainability, business, or tech, this program will prepare you for success in a data-driven world.

This is just one of many projects the College is working on to improve energy efficiency on campus. Learn more about Langara’s sustainability efforts on its road to net zero.

About Earth Day

April 22, 2025 marks the 55th anniversary of the first Earth Day. Over the years, the day has been marked by a demonstration towards environmental protection and peace. Earth Day is now recognized in 192 countries with roughly one billion people participating in this grassroots movement each year.

The theme for this year’s Earth Day is “Our Power, Our Planet,” which invites everyone around the globe to unite behind renewable energy, and to triple the global generation of clean electricity by 2030.

Discover more about Earth Day on the EDI Resource page.