Articles tagged with "Sustainability"

Digital product passports, already prevalent in the textile and electronics industries, are being introduced to the construction sector. These passports aim to enhance transparency across the supply chain for construction materials and products. This development aligns with broader industry trends towards increased digitalization and accountability.

The Canada Housing Design Catalogue, released by CMHC, has garnered recognition for its approach to building design and operational energy efficiency. The catalogue is not meant to be comprehensive for all types of developments, but it provides valuable insights into these specific aspects. The focus appears to be on improving processes and efficiency in residential building designs.

Procure Plus has announced a £1.6 billion framework involving over 100 companies to retrofit social housing and public buildings with low and zero-carbon technologies. The four-year project is structured into regional and technology-specific lots, extending to 2029 and including the installation of heat pumps, solar PV, insulation, and other green measures. This initiative will work alongside housing associations, councils, and public bodies to enhance decarbonisation efforts and increase local employment and training opportunities.

Michigan has introduced a mass timber program to encourage the adoption of this alternative building material. The state will provide financial support, guidance, and technical assistance to accommodate rising demand. This initiative is part of a broader effort to incorporate sustainable building practices in construction.

Sundt, Jacobs, and HDR have completed a $597 million wastewater treatment plant in San Mateo, California. The plant is a key part of San Mateo’s $1 billion Clean Water Program, aimed at upgrading the sewer infrastructure in the San Francisco Bay area. This project is instrumental in modernizing the region's water management systems.

The United States Department of Energy has canceled over $7.5 billion in clean energy awards, ending 223 projects. Additionally, nearly $100 billion in clean energy loans and conditional commitments are now under review. These actions have caused disruptions, particularly as the European Union progresses in its clean energy initiatives.

The Bureau d'audiences publiques sur l'environnement (BAPE) has announced a new public information period for the Grosse-Île wind farm project in the Magdalen Islands, from November 19 to December 19, 2025. This period will allow the public to learn about the project and its potential environmental impacts. Relevant project documents will be available on the BAPE website.

A new multifunctional trail is under construction in the Beauharnois-Salaberry Regional Park in Saint-Louis-de-Gonzague. The project will connect existing paths to the Canal neighborhood and involves temporary closures for safety. The construction adheres to environmental guidelines to reduce impact on natural surroundings. This infrastructure aims to promote cycling tourism and boost the local economy.

The Canada Infrastructure Bank and George Gordon Development Limited have finalized a $42 million loan to finance the Wicehtowak Solar project in Saskatchewan. The project will generate 32.4 MW of renewable energy and is the CIB's first 100% First Nation-led clean power initiative. The solar farm aims to reduce emissions by 21,686 tonnes annually, provide economic benefits, and create job opportunities for the George Gordon First Nation community. Additional funding comes from a $33 million grant by Natural Resources Canada.

NEC Contracts has introduced NEC Digital, a new online platform designed to transform contract drafting within the construction industry. The system offers guided contract setup, a comprehensive clause library, and enhanced collaboration tools tailored for various stakeholders. By digitizing these processes, NEC Digital seeks to improve efficiency, reduce disputes, and encourage wider adoption of collaborative contracting practices.

Green Infrastructure Partners Inc. has been chosen by the City of Ottawa to carry out modifications to Laurier Avenue for cycling infrastructure, with the project having an approved budget of $7.2 million. The work has recently commenced and is expected to be completed by the fall of 2026. This project involves significant adjustments aimed at enhancing cycling facilities along this key urban route.

Toronto officials have announced notable progress on their HousingTO 2020-2030 Action Plan, with 30,000 new rent-controlled homes approved. This initiative aligns with the city's long-term housing goals outlined in the 2024-2025 update of the HousingTO plan and the 2022-2026 Housing Action Plan. The city's approach is comprehensive, aiming for sustainable solutions to ensure adequate housing for all Torontonians.