The 21st century has played a significant role in shifting the way we look at construction. As such, demand for environmentally friendly products and building practices has become an increasing trend.
The Canadian construction industry is slowly but surely embracing new building practices that emphasize green construction and a reduced carbon footprint. A link is forming between profits and sustainability – those who seek proactive solutions in green technology will reap the benefits of an expanding market. Buildings, homes and offices are staples in virtually all communities. Therefore, it doesn’t take an expert to imagine the potential impact of a $140 billion industry going green.
Garnering a reputation as an environmentally friendly builder can increase business and earn tax breaks. This is why many builders across Canada have taken steps to have their projects or company certified as meeting minimum green building standards. According to the Canada Green Building Council, there were 4,278 LEED-certified projects in the country and 6,122 LEED-certified construction industry organizations and professionals in 2019. But what does it mean to be LEED-certified?
Manitoba Hydro Place achieved LEED Platinum certification in 2012 and is one of Canada’s most famous environmentally sustainable buildings.
LEED Certification
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is the world’s rating system for the design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings. It was launched to establish a holistic approach to sustainability and evaluates building performance based on five areas of human and environmental health: sustainable development, water efficiency, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. A credit-based system, LEED awards points to a project for eco-friendly actions taken during construction and in the building’s operations.
LEED Certification Levels
- Certified: 40 - 49 points
- Silver: 50 - 59 points
- Gold: 60 - 79 points
- Platinum: 80 - 110 points
Schools, retails and neighborhoods all have separate rating systems, with the opportunity to become certified and move up the ranks to platinum certification. By offering a flexible structure, the LEED program can identify requirements for projects separately to create an acceptable program across a diverse industry. LEED certification standards are constantly being reviewed and updated to ensure they meet the latest technology and construction standards. At the time of writing, LEED version 4.1 is in the beta stage and includes additions, improvements and enhancements in seven major categories, like location and transportation, water efficiency, materials and resources and more.
So why go green?
Sometimes clients might prioritize energy efficiency and even request LEED certification for their home or business. It is important to note that builders do not have to be a LEED Accredited Professional to build a LEED-certified building. As long you work with a LEED provider in your area – who can review your project submission and deliver a preliminary rating to see how well the design would score – you can pursue a LEED-certified construction project. This certification does not just apply to new builds, but can also be used for renovations and retrofits.
In the end, the combined benefits of green building practices can be substantial. According to the Canada Green Building Council, LEED-certified building projects have led to energy savings of 20.7 million megawatt-hours, 37 billion litres of water, 3.82 million tons of recycled construction waste and 4.04 million fewer tons of carbon dioxide, providing a lot of reasons to build green since 2005.
Visit your local Co-op Home Centre to find a wide range of energy-saving building products that can assist in meeting the sustainability goals of your next construction project
