Award

D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3 | 29 Green Building Design insulation, replace windows with more efficient models, and increase airtightness. Simultaneously, they upgrade mechanical systems, employing inno- vative solutions like gas heat pumps and dual-fuel hybrid systems. Such comprehensive upgrades aim to reduce emissions in buildings by over 50 percent, while improving living conditions for residents. Looking ahead to 2024, FortisBC plans to continue these transformative efforts, lowering energy use and encouraging the integration of Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) to meet the reduced heating needs. This approach not only minimizes emissions but also lowers operational costs, charting a path towards net-zero for buildings where converting to electricity is not feasible. Currently, construction is underway for all proj- ects, with the goal of completion by the end of 2024. Once finished, FortisBC will monitor and evaluate the energy use of each retrofitted home and building for a year, share the learnings and use the infor- mation to develop the next generations of energy efficiency programs. For example, in Vancouver, incorporating gas heat pumps, improving the building envelope, and upgrading windows could potentially achieve a remarkable 77 percent reduc- tion in emissions, demonstrating the program's positive impact on greening up buildings in B.C. ONGOING EDUCATION Williams Engineering, renowned for its forward- thinking approach, continues to lead in green building design by prioritizing continuous educa- tion and staying informed. Earlier this year, the team engaged in a pivotal lunch-and-learn session focusing on the Practice of Regenerative Design in the Buildings Industry. This enlightening session, presented by Genan Hamad, a Ph.D. student and sus- tainability intern through the University of Alberta's Adaptation Resilience Training (ART) program, delved into the critical aspects of regenerative design. The ART Program, aimed at preparing Alberta for the impacts of climate change, provided invaluable insights. Williams Engineering's participation show- cased their commitment to proactive climate risk management. The presentation addressed diverse topics, ranging from how regenerative design can effectively counteract climate challenges to the spe- cific roles and responsibilities associated with it. This newfound knowledge empowers Williams Engineering to seamlessly integrate regenerative design concepts into their infrastructure projects, reinforcing their position as pioneers in sustainable and resilient building practices. TAKING ACTION, TODAY Over the past 12 months, the Canada Green Building Council (CAGBC) has witnessed a significant shift towards heightened attention on carbon reduction and retrofitting existing structures. In fact, CAGBC has certified 26 projects under the Zero Carbon Building – Performance standard and 23 under the Zero Carbon Building – Design standard. Notably, the design community is taking a central role in advancing low- carbon approaches in new constructions and finding innovative solutions for retrofitting existing buildings. To foster industry growth, this fall CAGBC and its partners are launching the pioneering Low Carbon Training Program. Funded in part by the Government of Canada's Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program, this first-of-its-kind initiative aims to prepare pro- fessionals for work on efficient and low-carbon buildings, a crucial step in meeting the increasing demand for green structures. Concurrently, estab- lishing a Canadian low-carbon supply chain is seen as vital, prompting collaboration with the University of Toronto on carbon capture research and the launch of a Sustainable Materials accelerator. "To achieve zero carbon buildings and retrofits, architects and general contractors need access to a robust supply of innovative and low-carbon materi- als. Many Canadian companies offer new low-carbon solutions designers can implement – from reused and recycled construction materials to products that capture carbon dioxide through their production. However, companies – especially small and medium- sized manufacturers - can struggle with documenting the benefits of their products. CAGBC is working to level the playing field for these companies and secure the support they need to compete in the Canadian and U.S. markets," says Mark Hutchinson, VP of green building programs and innovation at CAGBC. "That is why CAGBC recommends that the federal government create a grant program to sup- port companies seeking Environmental Product Declarations for the products designers need for zero carbon buildings and energy efficient retrofits. Our southern neighbour is investing $250 million USD in this issue through the Inflation Reduction Act, and Canada cannot afford to be on the side- lines," adds Hutchinson. A NOV 29 - DEC 1, 2023 BOOTH #1624 METRO TORONTO CONVENTION CENTRE CONNECT WITH US AT: GSBP.CA/ICE SUSTAINABLE BUILDING IS HERE.

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