Green roofs contribute to reducing the urban heat island effect and mitigate storm water flows in urban areas.
Buildings currently generate over 30 per cent of Canada's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through fossil fuels used in heating, cooling and lighting, and an additional 10 to 15 per cent is embodied in building materials and products. As Canada is committing to tackling ambitious climate change challenges, reducing the environmental impact of buildings has to be part of the plan, says Thomas Mueller, president and CEO of the Canada Green Building Council.
He adds that sustainable buildings have gained traction across the country, with data showing their considerable success in reducing energy consumption and GHG emissions, water use and waste disposal, as well as creating healthier indoor environments.
"It's a bit of a misconception that green buildings are much more expensive," says Mr. Mueller. "Ten years ago, that was true, but the industry has gone through a significant learning curve and can now deliver LEED-certified buildings at a very reasonable cost."
Sustainable options are not limited to new projects but include upgrading existing buildings, which make up the majority of building stock, says Mr. Mueller, adding that investments for green retrofits and operational improvements can typically be recouped in less than 10 years. The key is to pursue timely opportunities and choose the best green options when upgrades are needed due to age or market demand, he suggests.
While the business case for retrofitting buildings for better energy performance is already clear, Mr. Mueller believes interest will only continue to grow. "We already have a price on carbon in Ontario, Alberta, B.C. and Quebec, and in all likelihood, there will be a price on carbon across Canada in the future," he says. "This would be an added incentive for building portfolio owners to make new and existing buildings more carbon-efficient."
All three levels of governments are already taking action on making their properties more sustainable, and the federal government recently committed to retrofit its buildings in the national capital region to be greener.
Mr. Mueller believes more can be done. He says government incentives and policies and investment in research and development could play a larger role in encouraging the move toward greater sustainability and innovation.
This content was produced by Randall Anthony Communications, in partnership with The Globe and Mail's advertising department. The Globe's editorial department was not involved in its creation.