Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/1529939
D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 4 | 25 Green Building Design PR ACTICAL APPLICATIONS The demand for new construction is growing in B.C., as is the requirement to build homes and buildings to higher efficiency standards. Michael Lui, energy solutions manager, FortisBC, is seeing builders and developers embrace innova- tive technologies and designs to achieve higher levels of B.C.'s Energy Step Code, while prioritizing energy-efficiency as well as resiliency and affordability. For example, Lui is seeing integrated dual-fuel systems emerge as one of the preferences for builders. These systems use both a heat pump and high- efficiency furnace to heat and cool the home. This allows new construction projects to remain connected to the gas system, while helping to lower energy use and overall greenhouse gas emissions. As both a gas and electricity provider, FortisBC encourages builders to work with them early in the design process to identify energy capacity needs as well work together to optimize building performance. Working together across B.C.'s diverse climate zones is providing valuable lessons on the flexibility, support, and funding needed to help design and build high-efficiency new homes in more affordable and practical ways. SMART SOLUTIONS Williams Engineering continues to stay ahead of trends in green building design by embracing advanced technology that enhances both sustainability and efficiency. Experts at Williams say that tools like Twinmotion, Navisworks, and BIM 360 have revolutionized how architects and engineers conceptualize, collaborate, and execute projects. Twinmotion's real-time rendering capabilities enable designers to visualize sustainable infrastructure solutions, facilitating more informed decision-making. Navisworks enhances project co-ordination through clash detection, significantly reducing rework and delays. Meanwhile, BIM 360, a cloud-based platform, promotes real-time collaboration, ensuring that all stakeholders have access to the most current project data. Emerging technologies such as virtual reality, augmented reality, and digital twins are pushing these boundaries further. Looking ahead, the integration of machine learning and artificial intelligence is poised to transform design pro- cesses, ensuring that future green buildings are smarter and more responsive. DECARBONIZATION LEADERSHIP WSP has been named a leader in Verdantix's Green Quadrant: Building Decarbonization Consulting 2024 report, which evaluates firms working to reduce carbon emissions in existing structures. With 80 percent of current buildings expected to remain in use by 2050, decarbonization strategies are becoming increasingly urgent. WSP's comprehensive, data-driven approach focuses on identifying high- potential assets and implementing interventions that maximize impact while minimizing disruption. Tom Smith, global director of property and buildings at WSP, highlights, "Collaboration between asset owners, the construction profes- sion, and the supply chain is critical in meeting net-zero commitments." INDUSTRY MILESTONES Corbec Inc., a leader in Canada's galvanizing and construction sectors, recently shared what could be considered a rather groundbreaking development at the Transportation Association of Canada (TAC) Conference in Vancouver. During a plenary session, Hellen Christodoulou, executive VP of engineering and sustainability, revealed that Corbec will be publishing third-party verified Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) with the CSA Group. This makes them the first galvanizers in Canada to release EPDs for galvanized structural steel and the first in North America for galvanized steel rebars – a significant milestone for the industry. This move comes at a crucial time for the bridge construction sector, where EPD results confirm galvanized rebars have the lowest global potential over their life cycle, performing better than glass fibre reinforced and stainless steel rebars. Since 1965, Corbec has remained dedicated to top-tier service and quality in steel protection, working closely with clients and pushing the boundaries of innovation to meet the evolving needs of the construction industry. Hellen Christodoulou emphasized the importance of this achievement: "Corbec has set a new standard for the Canadian construction industry. It is now proven that choosing galvanizing for corrosion protection offers designers and specifiers the lowest carbon footprint solution with the highest ROI, helping them achieve their project performance goals." A www.parkin.ca Toronto Ottawa Vancouver toronto@parkin.ca ottawa@parkin.ca vancouver@parkin.ca Providing Sustainable Solutions. Proudly contributing to a more sustainable approach to building in the prairies.