Articles from Construct Connect Canada

The article highlights the top 10 multi-residential projects in Canada by project value for July 2025. It includes notable developments like the Garibaldi at Squamish Ski Resort, which involves site work, paving, and new construction of a mixed-use complex. The piece serves as a guide for industry professionals interested in tracking upcoming significant projects across Canada.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has indicated that any future trade agreement with the United States might include quotas on softwood lumber exports. This statement comes after British Columbia Premier David Eby mentioned that the federal government has been discussing the possibility of using quotas with provinces as a solution to the ongoing softwood lumber trade issues. The inclusion of 'managed trade' elements in the deal aims to address longstanding trade conflicts between Canada and the U.S. over lumber imports.

Ryan Ness from the Canadian Climate Institute expresses concern over Canada's preparedness in dealing with severe weather conditions such as flash flooding, similar to recent deadly events in Texas. He emphasizes the need for investment in flood mapping, infrastructure, and early warning systems to mitigate such disasters. The article highlights the potential risks Canada faces due to inadequate preventative measures.

The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) has finalized a $50 million loan with Creative Energy to advance decarbonization projects in British Columbia and Ontario. This partnership aims to help clients reduce their emissions by over 90 percent through various strategies. The initiative will focus on adopting low-carbon technologies and enhancing the sustainability of operations in these provinces.

The 2025 CAGBC Awards were announced at the Building Lasting Change conference gala in Vancouver. These awards highlight individuals and projects that are transforming Canada's green building industry. The CAGBC, led by Thomas Mueller, celebrates these innovative contributions to reshaping the building sector.

The Cowichan District Replacement Hospital in British Columbia will be the first all-electric hospital in the province and the first in Canada to receive Zero-Carbon Building Design certification from the Canada Green Building Council. This certification recognizes the hospital's use of sustainable building materials, such as low carbon concrete and mass timber. The project emphasizes environmentally significant insulation as part of its design. As a pioneering project, it sets new sustainability standards for healthcare construction in Canada.

The Canada Green Building Council (CAGBC) hosted a panel discussion at the Building Lasting Change conference to address evolving green building priorities in a complex policy environment. The event, held in Vancouver, brought together sustainability experts to discuss navigating these developments. Brent Gilmour, CAGBC's chief commercial officer, moderated the panel. The discussion focused on adapting green building practices amidst policy changes.

The movement towards electrification in highrise rental apartment buildings in British Columbia is gaining momentum. This shift is aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, as buildings burning natural gas are the largest contributors to such emissions in Vancouver, responsible for nearly 60% of GHG emissions. Brad Badelt, Vancouver's director of sustainability, emphasizes the importance of this transition in meeting the city's environmental targets.

The fourth phase of the Maple Meadows self-storage facility in Maple Ridge, B.C., has received net-zero certification from the Canada Green Building Council (CAGBC). This certification highlights the elimination of fossil fuel use, the integration of solar panels, and enhanced energy efficiency. The facility, scheduled for completion in summer 2024, will generate sufficient energy through its rooftop solar panels.

The Canadian mass timber industry is expanding rapidly, but its growth is hindered by challenges in obtaining affordable insurance and financing. Simon Fraser University Renewable Cities has published a guide to address these issues, focusing on risk mitigation and insurance strategies to support the industry. The guide aims to help stakeholders navigate these challenges and foster the further development of mass timber projects in Canada.