What we build has an impact now, and in the future, when it comes to building sustainable communities. More than ever, the built environment needs to demonstrate the 3 pillars of sustainability, which are economic, social, and environmental. Well planned and designed communities and buildings need to balance the role of affordability, livability and well-being.
The residential construction industry understands the importance of environmental sustainability and is taking steps to reduce the environmental impact of the built environment.
Examples of actions that our industry is taking include:
Using sustainable building materials:
Builders are increasingly using materials that have a lower environmental impact. Examples:
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- Structural Timber, Lumber and Wood – Today forestry sector has reduced total GHG emission by 46%[i]. Wood products naturally does not deplete the earth of its natural resources and since that resource can more or less stand on its own, it can be grown and harvested over an over again. Canada has one of the best managed forest industries in the world, which supplies our homes with the lumber, wood and engineered wood products that make up much of a home.
- Concrete & Cement – Concrete and cement play a key role in creating a sustainable community which includes resilience and mitigating the effects of climate change. The thermal mass properties of concrete slow down heat transfer, which reduces heating/colling needs by maintaining temperatures longer. Innovation in the industry has reduced the energy used to produce a metric ton of concrete and cement by 40%[ii].
- Paints – Most paints today are low VOC. Through innovation in our industry, there are now choices for paints that actually neutralizes VOC’s from potential other sources.
- Flooring – More and more manufacturers are incorporating a mixture of recycled plastic in new flooring products like tile and carpet.
- Composite Decking – Often made from a combination of recycled plastics and wood fibers, are now a popular outdoor flooring option.
More choices in sustainable materials are becoming increasingly available, like Biofibers, Carbon Neutral Silicones, Cementitious materials with the addition of fly ash and hempcrete just to name a few. By using sustainable building materials in homes, we can reduce our environmental impact, create more energy-efficient and resilient buildings, and support a more sustainable future.
Implementing energy-efficient designs:
Builders are incorporating energy-efficient designs which takes a whole house systems approach that considers all the variables, details and interactions that affect energy use in the home. Incorporating the latest technology in insulation and air sealing, lighting, day lighting (natural light), space heating and cooling, water heating, windows and doors. These homes can be rated and labeled by a Certified Energy Auditor that variefies the homes energy performance. The whole whom approach can maximize the reduction in energy consumption and carbon emissions.
Using water-efficient appliances and fixtures:
Builders are incorporating water-conserving fixtures like low flow toilets, faucets and shower heads that reduce water consumption. ENERGY STAR appliances are certified to save water as well as energy. A standard certified dishwasher can save an average of 3,870 gallons of water and a certified clothes washer uses 33% less water.[iii]. In addition, efficient piping eliminates potential conflicts with structural and mechanical elements in the home.
Recycling construction waste:
Builders are increasingly paying attention to construction waste and recycling options, such as concrete and wood, to reduce landfill waste and conserve natural resources. While Regina has limited option in this area, those choices are growing.
Net-zero energy homes and green building certifications:
Builders are constructing and renovating net-zero energy homes that produce as much energy as they consume, often through the use of renewable energy sources. The Canadian Home Builders Association (CHBA) has developed the Net Zero Energy (NZE), Net Zero Energy Ready (NZER) and Net Zero Renovation programs. These programs include training in building science and labeling of new homes and deep retrofits through a qualified service organization. These builders and renovators are trained to ensure that their NZE projects meet strict environmental standards. The Regina & Region Home Builders Association has facilitated 28 individuals to be experts in NZE Building.
Using sustainable landscaping:
Builders and Community Developers are increasingly incorporating sustainable landscaping practices, such as:
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- Native Plants: Using native plants in landscaping can help to reduce the need for water and maintenance. Native plants are adapted to the local climate, require less watering, and are often more resistant to pests and diseases.
- Rain Gardens: Installing rain gardens can help to capture and filter stormwater runoff, reducing the amount of pollutants that enter nearby streams and rivers. Rain gardens are shallow depressions planted with water-loving plants that can absorb excess water.
- Permeable Paving: Using permeable paving materials, such as porous concrete help to reduce stormwater runoff and improve groundwater recharge.
- Smart Irrigation: Installing smart irrigation systems that use weather data to adjust watering schedules can help to reduce water usage and improve plant health.
By implementing sustainable landscaping practices in new neighborhoods, we can create healthier, more resilient communities that benefit both people and the environment.
These are just a few examples of the actions that the residential construction industry is taking to promote environmental sustainability. As awareness grows and technology advances, the industry will continue to make progress in this area.
[i] Natural Resources Canada “The State of Canada’s Forest Annual Report 2022” pg 67. [ii] www.cement.org/sustainability May 2023 [iii] US Department of Energy https://www.energystar.gov/products May 2023
