Canada Sustainable Building Materials Trends

The Canadian construction industry is witnessing a significant shift towards sustainable building practices. Lafarge Canada, a leading provider of building materials, is at the forefront of this movement, setting new standards in environmental stewardship and innovation. The trend towards green building materials and technologies is reshaping the construction landscape, with a focus on reducing environmental footprint and embracing energy-efficient processes. This comprehensive guide explores the latest trends in sustainable building materials across Canada, highlighting innovations in concrete production, cement manufacturing, and asphalt solutions.

• The buildings sector accounts for 18% of Canada’s total emissions, making it the third largest emitting sector in the country¹.
• Over 96% of buildings’ operating emissions come from space and water heating equipment using fossil fuels like natural gas furnaces and boilers¹.
• Canada needs to accelerate the retrofit of approximately 11 million buildings and construct millions of new greener buildings to reach climate goals and increase housing supply¹.
• Transitioning to alternative heating solutions, such as heat pumps, is crucial in reducing operational emissions from buildings¹.
• Sustainable construction practices, including the use of eco-friendly materials and technologies, are essential in achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050¹.

The construction industry in Canada is undergoing a remarkable transformation towards sustainability. Low-carbon construction materials and renewable building resources are gaining increasing prominence, as the sector strives to address environmental challenges and enhance energy efficiency². This shift is driven by government initiatives, consumer demand, and the need for climate-resilient structures, leading to a growing market for sustainable construction materials³.

The integration of renewable energy sources and smart energy management systems is becoming increasingly prevalent in Canadian construction projects. This is part of a broader effort to reduce carbon emissions and improve the overall environmental performance of buildings². The industry is also witnessing a rise in the adoption of green building certifications, such as LEED, which validate sustainability credentials and encourage the use of energy-efficient practices².

Canada’s construction industry faces significant environmental challenges, including the generation of substantial solid waste². However, the sector is actively exploring solutions, such as the transition to a Circular Built Environment, which aims to reduce waste and lower carbon emissions². Innovative approaches, such as the utilization of modular and adaptable structures, have the potential to address affordable housing concerns while aligning with sustainable construction principles².

The market for sustainable construction materials in Canada is poised for substantial growth. Industry experts project a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of XX% for the Canada Sustainable Construction Materials Market from 2022 to 2033, with an estimated market value of XX billion dollars expected to be reached by 2033³. This growth is driven by the country’s strong economic performance, with a GDP of CAD 2.7 trillion in 2023, and the thriving technology and e-commerce sectors, which have seen significant expansion³.

The sustainable construction materials market in Canada is segmented into Residential, Commercial, Institutional, Industrial, and Infrastructure applications, catering to the diverse needs of the industry³. Leading manufacturers in this sector include Holcim Group, Saint-Gobain, BASF SE, Owens Corning, and Sika AG, who are at the forefront of innovation and sustainable solutions³.

“The building industry in Canada faces barriers to transitioning to circular practices, including stakeholder complexity and a lingering emphasis on cost over sustainability. However, the CSA Group is moving towards action to implement circularity in Canada’s construction industry.” – Bansal’s report

The transition to sustainable construction in Canada is not without its challenges, as the industry grapples with stakeholder complexity and a focus on cost over sustainability². Nevertheless, initiatives like Bansal’s report and the CSA Group’s actions demonstrate a growing commitment to address these barriers and drive the adoption of circular practices in the Canadian construction sector².

As the industry continues to evolve, the onus is on all Canadians to actively engage with and evaluate the sustainable practices of the buildings they interact with, further fueling the demand for energy-efficient construction and low-carbon building materials².

Green building certification systems play a crucial role in promoting environmentally conscious construction and sustainability within the Canadian green building industry. These certifications validate a building’s environmental performance, driving innovation and encouraging the adoption of energy-efficient practices across the construction sector⁴.

One of the most widely recognised certification systems in Canada is LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), administered by the Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC). LEED adopts a holistic approach to sustainability, with buildings and homes receiving ratings of certified, silver, gold or platinum based on a comprehensive 110-point rating system⁴.

Other prominent green building certification programmes in Canada include BOMA BEST, which assesses environmental performance and management over ten areas for various buildings, offering both certifications and building management tools⁴. The Novoclimat initiative in Quebec results in improved energy performance of a minimum of 20% compared to local building codes for qualifying homes⁴, while ENERGY STAR qualified homes are 20% more energy-efficient in terms of space and water heating than those built to local building codes⁴.

Passive House buildings, which focus on a highly efficient building envelope, consume up to 90% less heating and cooling energy than conventional buildings⁴. The Green Key Eco-Rating Program provides environmental audits and recommendations for decreasing emissions, waste, and energy use specifically within the hotel and lodging industry⁴.

Emerging certification systems, such as the TRUE Zero Waste program and the Zero Carbon Building Standard, are also gaining traction in Canada. The TRUE Zero Waste certification requires diverting a minimum of 90% of solid, non-hazardous waste from landfills for 12 consecutive months in public buildings⁴, while the Zero Carbon Building Standard evaluates new and existing buildings by carbon emissions, aiming for a zero carbon balance and certification based on meeting specific energy performance criteria⁴.

These certification systems not only ensure compliance with environmental standards but also drive innovation in sustainable building techniques and materials, positioning Canada as a leader in the environmentally conscious construction and Canadian green building industry⁴.

“Green building certification systems are instrumental in promoting sustainability and driving innovation within the construction industry. They not only validate a building’s environmental performance but also encourage the adoption of energy-efficient practices across the sector.”

The Canadian market for eco-friendly building supplies and sustainable architecture is experiencing a surge of innovation and growth. Leading manufacturers and suppliers, such as Lafarge Canada, are at the forefront of providing cutting-edge materials and technologies that cater to the increasing demand for sustainable construction options⁵.

A prime example is Graymont, a Quebec-based company that has developed a low-carbon cement, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 10-15%⁵. These sustainable materials, including engineered wood, green concrete, and reclaimed materials, boast a significantly lower carbon footprint and ecological impact compared to traditional building supplies, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and natural resource usage⁵.

The distribution networks for these eco-friendly building supplies are expanding to meet the growing market demand. Sustainable materials like wood, natural insulation, and hemp-based products are becoming more widely available, offering enhanced thermal and soundproofing properties while deriving from local, renewable sources that require minimal resources to produce⁵.

The trend towards sustainable architecture in Canada is particularly strong in urban centres and regions with stringent environmental regulations. Consumers and builders alike are increasingly gravitating towards these eco-friendly options, driven by both environmental concerns and the long-term cost savings associated with their enhanced durability and reduced maintenance needs⁵. The construction sector in Canada is expected to reach over US$354.9 billion by 2024, growing at an 8.5% compound annual growth rate⁶.

However, the industry faces challenges, with 58% of Canadian firms reporting supply chain issues as one of their top concerns for the rest of 2023, and 80% of firms having delayed project completion dates due to late-arriving materials⁶. The building sector contributes to 13% of Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions, a figure that rises to 18% when electricity-related emissions are included⁶.

To address these challenges and promote sustainable building practices, the Canadian government has announced a $150 million Green Buildings Strategy, aimed at financing sustainable building projects and reducing the environmental impact of the construction industry⁶. The strategy includes investments in programs such as the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings Program and the Canada Greener Homes Grant program, as well as a regulatory framework to phase out oil heating systems in new construction starting in 2028⁷.

The construction industry in Canada is witnessing a revolution in sustainable concrete technologies. Eco-friendly concrete solutions, such as Lafarge’s ECOPact, are leading the way towards low-carbon construction materials. ECOPact, a low-carbon concrete solution, has been successfully utilised in projects like the Nuvo Condo in Oakville, Ontario, reducing CO2 emissions by 31%⁸.

The increased use of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) like slag and crushed glass in concrete mix designs is another innovative approach. These SCMs not only utilise waste products but also reduce the embodied carbon of construction projects, making them more environmentally conscious⁸.

Eco Material Technologies, a leading manufacturer in the field, aims to double the volumes of zero- and near-zero-carbon materials sold into the North American concrete market by 2030⁸. Their facility in Jewett, Texas, has already produced over one million tons of near-zero-carbon products for use in infrastructure projects⁸. Additionally, their bottom ash grinding facility in Central Texas processes bottom ash for sale into concrete markets, contributing to the extension of concrete-grade ash supplies in regional markets⁸.

These eco-friendly concrete solutions not only address the environmental challenges but also offer cost-effective long-term benefits. As the construction industry in Canada continues to prioritise sustainability, innovative low-carbon materials like these are set to play a crucial role in shaping a more sustainable future.

“The use of supplementary cementitious materials in concrete mix designs is a game-changer for the construction industry, reducing embodied carbon while utilising waste products.”

The construction industry in Canada is increasingly embracing the use of renewable and recycled building components to promote sustainability. Reclaimed wood products, such as those salvaged from old buildings and barns, are gaining popularity as they add character to new structures while reducing waste⁹. Similarly, recycled metal materials, particularly steel, are becoming more common as they can be endlessly recycled without losing their strength⁹.

Innovative composite materials, often made from recycled or waste products, are being developed to provide sustainable alternatives to traditional building materials. These composites, such as wood-plastic composites and papercrete, contribute to circular economies by reducing waste and promoting reuse¹⁰. The emphasis on locally available sustainable building materials can also help reduce transportation demands and lower greenhouse gas emissions, showcasing the industry’s commitment to minimising carbon footprints¹⁰.

Reclaimed wood products are becoming increasingly popular in the Canadian construction market, as they offer a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing alternative to new timber⁹. These materials, sourced from old buildings and barns, add character and charm to new structures while reducing the environmental impact of the industry⁹.

Recycled metal materials, particularly steel, are gaining traction in the Canadian construction sector⁹. Recycled steel can be endlessly recycled without losing its strength, making it a sustainable choice for construction projects⁹. This trend reflects the industry’s commitment to reducing waste and promoting a more circular economy.

Innovative composite materials, often made from recycled or waste products, are being developed to provide sustainable alternatives to traditional building materials¹⁰. These composites, such as wood-plastic composites and papercrete, contribute to circular economies by reducing waste and promoting reuse¹⁰. The integration of these innovative materials showcases the construction industry’s commitment to exploring sustainable solutions.

The use of renewable and recycled building components is a growing trend in the Canadian construction industry, reflecting a shift towards more sustainable practices. From reclaimed wood products to recycled metal materials and innovative composites, the industry is exploring a range of solutions to reduce waste, promote reuse, and minimise the environmental impact of construction activities¹⁰¹¹⁹.

“Integrating renewable and natural materials like bamboo, cork, and FSC-certified wood is crucial for sustainable construction due to their rapid growth and minimal processing requirements.”¹⁰

The Canadian construction industry’s embrace of renewable and recycled building components is a significant step towards a more sustainable future. By prioritising local availability, recycled content, and renewable resources, the sector is demonstrating its commitment to reducing environmental impact and promoting a circular economy¹⁰¹¹⁹.

Energy efficiency is a paramount focus in Canadian sustainable construction. The integration of high-performance insulation, smart energy management technologies, and renewable energy sources has become standard practice¹². Buildings are being designed to optimise energy use, with features like passive solar design and advanced HVAC systems¹³. The emphasis on building performance is driving innovations in materials and technologies that reduce energy consumption and enhance overall sustainability¹⁴.

The Canadian government’s national strategy emphasises the need to increase the rate of building retrofits to three per cent per year, requiring over $400 billion in capital investment over the next 30 years¹². A policy shift towards installing heat pumps instead of one-way central air conditioners in new homes and certain retrofit scenarios has already been implemented in Vancouver, suggesting a positive impact on energy efficiency¹². Across Canada, there has been a 27% reduction in heating oil systems in residential buildings from 2017 to 2021, indicating a strong momentum to replace existing oil heating systems¹².

The federal government commits to introducing a regulatory framework to phase out the installation of oil heating systems in new construction as early as 2028, aligning with existing bans in provinces like Québec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia, indicating a trend towards cleaner energy sources¹². The strategy mentions the importance of implementing a “buy clean” approach to promote low-carbon construction materials through federal procurement and investment, potentially driving the adoption of sustainable building practices¹².

High-performance construction is becoming increasingly popular in the building industry¹³. High-performance building design emphasises sustainability, safety, durability, and energy efficiency¹³. These buildings aim to use materials that are not toxic to the environment, require less energy to produce, and can be reused or recycled¹³. The focus on managing moisture effectively is crucial to prevent building decay and ensure longevity¹³.

High-performance buildings are designed for deconstruction at the end of their life cycle, and the incorporation of renewable energy systems is common¹³. Precision construction methods are crucial in high-performance building projects, and several certifications such as LEED, WELL Building Standard, Living Building Challenge, and Green Globes Certification are sought after¹³.

The commitment to retrofit existing homes and buildings at a rate of around three per cent per year necessitates the need for more than $400 billion in capital investment over the next 30 years¹². There is mention of provincial and territorial access to the Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund, with requirements for adopting forthcoming changes to the National Building Code, indicating a collaborative effort to enhance building standards¹².

The strategy highlights the Greener Homes Affordability Program, targeting low- to medium-income Canadians with specific climate resilience objectives and considerations for Indigenous communities, showcasing inclusivity in energy efficiency initiatives¹².

“Energy efficiency is not just about saving money; it’s about creating a more sustainable future for all Canadians.”

The emphasis on energy efficiency and building performance in Canada’s sustainable construction sector is driving innovative solutions and a collaborative approach to reduce energy consumption and improve environmental sustainability¹²¹³¹⁴.

The Canadian green building industry is embracing smart technology to drive more environmentally conscious construction¹⁵. Building Automation Systems (BAS) are being widely adopted to control and monitor mechanical and electrical equipment, enhancing energy efficiency¹⁵. IoT applications are enabling real-time monitoring and optimisation of building performance, while data analytics are being leveraged to inform decision-making on energy use, space utilization, and maintenance needs¹⁵. These innovative technologies are contributing to more sustainable and efficient building operations across the country.

BAS are becoming increasingly prevalent in the Canadian construction sector, allowing for centralised control and monitoring of a building’s various systems¹⁵. By automating heating, cooling, lighting, and other functions, BAS can significantly reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions, aligning with national and local sustainability goals¹⁵. Moreover, the data collected by these systems enables building managers to identify optimization opportunities and implement targeted efficiency measures.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming the way buildings are managed and operated in Canada¹⁵. Connected sensors and devices provide real-time insights into energy use, occupancy patterns, and equipment performance, empowering building owners to make informed decisions that enhance environmental performance¹⁵. These IoT-powered solutions are instrumental in driving the shift towards more sustainable and efficient building practices.

Data analytics play a crucial role in the Canadian green building industry, helping to optimise energy consumption, space utilisation, and maintenance strategies¹⁵. By leveraging the wealth of data generated by BAS and IoT systems, building managers can identify opportunities for improvement, predict maintenance needs, and continuously refine their sustainability initiatives¹⁵. This data-driven approach is essential for maximising the environmental and economic benefits of sustainable construction.

The integration of smart technologies into sustainable construction in Canada is a crucial step towards a more environmentally conscious built environment¹⁵. By harnessing the power of BAS, IoT, and data analytics, the Canadian green building industry is poised to lead the way in creating energy-efficient, resource-conscious, and resilient structures that contribute to the nation’s sustainability goals¹⁵.

“Smart technologies are transforming the way we design, construct, and operate buildings, paving the way for a more sustainable future in the Canadian construction industry.”

Sustainable architecture in Canada is increasingly focused on innovative water conservation and management solutions. As water scarcity becomes a growing concern, the construction industry is embracing technologies and practices that reduce freshwater consumption¹⁶.

Greywater recycling systems are being implemented in new buildings to reuse water from sinks, showers, and washing machines for landscape irrigation and toilet flushing. Low-flow fixtures, such as taps and showerheads, are also becoming standard, helping to lower water usage¹⁶.

• The EPA suggests that watering with a hand-held hose is the most water-efficient method for plant care¹⁶.
• Xeriscaping, a form of water-efficient landscaping, is based on seven principles as described by the EPA¹⁶.
• The Toronto Region Conservation Authority provides a guide on building and maintaining rain gardens, promoting sustainability in water conservation practices¹⁶.

Smart water management systems, equipped with sensors and automation technology, are being used to optimize water usage and detect inefficiencies. These solutions not only benefit the environment but also result in long-term cost savings for building owners and occupants¹⁶.

Vancouver’s Rain City Water Strategy acts as a key driver in prioritizing stormwater management within the industry¹⁷. Green roofs and living architecture help counteract the heat island effect caused by excessive concrete and glass in urban areas, reducing urban temperatures and promoting fresh oxygen infusion¹⁷.

Sustainable water management solutions, such as those offered by Architek, help reduce flooding, strain on city drainage systems, and contribute to water conservation efforts through grey and black water reuse¹⁷. These innovative approaches to water conservation and management are crucial for the sustainable architecture movement in Canada, as the industry continues to prioritize environmental responsibility and long-term cost savings¹⁶¹⁷.

Improving indoor environmental quality (IEQ) is a growing focus in sustainable construction across Canada. By addressing key aspects like air quality, natural light, and acoustic performance, green construction projects are enhancing the health, well-being, and productivity of building occupants¹⁸.

Advanced ventilation systems and the use of low-VOC building materials are being implemented to create healthier indoor environments. This is crucial given that 88.9% of Canadians spend the majority of their lives indoors¹⁸. Poor air quality can lead to a range of health issues, from headaches and fatigue to worsening allergy and asthma symptoms¹⁸. Strategies like proper building envelope design and the selection of materials that do not emit pollutants are helping to improve indoor air quality during the construction process¹⁸.

Natural light is recognised as the best lighting strategy for human health, with positive effects on mood and reduced eyestrain¹⁹. In contrast, artificial lighting, especially cool white fluorescent lights, can negatively impact circadian rhythms and lead to health problems¹⁸. Sustainable construction projects are incorporating strategic design and glazing choices to maximise natural light and reduce energy consumption.

Acoustical comfort in built environments is crucial for interaction, confidentiality, and concentrative work¹⁸. Noise pollution, especially in urban areas, can have cognitive impacts, sleep disturbance, mental health, and cardiovascular effects¹⁸. Acoustical improvements, such as noise-reducing materials and technologies like noise-dampening windows, are being integrated into sustainable construction to create more comfortable and productive spaces¹⁸.

By addressing these key aspects of indoor environmental quality, green construction in Canada is contributing to the overall sustainability and liveability of buildings, enhancing the health and well-being of occupants²⁰.

“Good indoor air quality contributes positively to the productivity, comfort, health, and well-being of building occupants and employees.”²⁰

The development and use of low-carbon construction materials is a key trend in Canadian sustainable building. Innovations like CarbonCure’s technology, which captures and stores CO2 in concrete, are reducing the carbon footprint of construction²¹. The use of engineered wood products and other bio-based materials is increasing, offering low-carbon alternatives to traditional materials²². Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) tools are being used to evaluate and select materials with the lowest carbon footprint, contributing to overall emissions reduction in the construction sector.

Construction and construction materials contribute to 11% of Canada’s total emissions, with steel and concrete being particularly harmful to the environment²². In response, the Canadian government has taken steps to promote the use of low-carbon construction materials²². For example, Infrastructure Canada has approved over $46 billion in federal contributions for infrastructure projects from 2014 to 2023, with a focus on sustainable materials²².

Innovative companies like Low Carbon Materials are leading the way in developing eco-friendly solutions. Concrete contributes to 8% of global emissions, and Low Carbon Materials’ technology aims to reduce CO2 consumption for key trade items such as aggregate blocks²³. The company has also partnered with Durham County Council and MGL Group to deliver the UK’s first-ever net zero asphalt scheme, highlighting the potential for low-carbon materials to transform the construction industry²³.

As the construction sector strives to reduce its environmental impact, the use of low-carbon materials is poised to play a crucial role in Canada’s sustainable building future²¹²²²³.

The Canadian green building industry is witnessing a surge in government-led initiatives that are driving the adoption of environmentally conscious construction practices across the nation²⁴. Federal programmes, such as the Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program, the CMHC Eco Programs for Lenders, and the Canada Greener Homes Loan, are offering substantial financial support to homeowners and businesses transitioning to sustainable energy solutions²⁴. These incentives are designed to make green retrofits and new energy-efficient constructions more accessible and affordable for Canadians²⁴.

At the provincial level, green building initiatives are also gaining momentum²⁴. In Nova Scotia, the Solar Homes Program and the solar batteries pilot provide rebates for residential and non-profit solar installations²⁴. Prince Edward Island’s Solar Electric Rebate Program offers generous incentives for both residential and commercial solar projects²⁴. Quebec’s Rénoclimat programme funds energy-efficiency upgrades, while Ontario’s various initiatives, such as the Retrofit Program and the Save on Energy Instant Discounts, target the commercial sector²⁴. Across the country, these provincial programmes are catalysing the growth of the Canadian green building industry²⁴.

Municipal governments are also playing a crucial role in driving sustainable construction practices²⁵. The Canada Green Buildings Strategy, with an $800 million investment in the Canada Greener Homes Affordability Program (CGHAP), aims to reduce energy bills for Canadians and support job creation²⁵. The CGHAP is expected to provide up to four times more valuable support than the previous Canada Greener Homes Grant (CGHG), which has already helped 240,000 homeowners make energy-efficient upgrades, resulting in average annual savings of nearly $400 per household²⁵. As the Canadian government plans to phase out oil heating systems in new constructions by 2028, these comprehensive regulatory frameworks and incentive programs are paving the way for a greener, more sustainable built environment²⁵.

“To reach Canada’s climate goals and create a resilient building stock, approximately 10 million buildings need to be retrofitted, and new net-zero buildings must be constructed in the coming decades.”²⁵

The future of sustainable building in Canada is focused on further reducing environmental impact and improving resilience. Biophilic design, which integrates natural elements into buildings for improved occupant well-being, is anticipated to gain greater traction²⁶. The adoption of circular economy principles in construction is also expected to grow, emphasising material reuse and recycling.

Advancements in green technology, such as building-integrated renewable energy systems and smart facades, are likely to become more prevalent²⁷. These trends will shape the future of Canadian construction, making it more sustainable and resilient. Sustainable architecture and green construction in Canada are poised to undergo a transformation, driven by innovative solutions and a collective commitment to environmental stewardship.

Sustainable materials, such as recycled steel, aluminium, reclaimed wood, bamboo, and bio-composites, are gaining prominence in the industry²⁸. The increased use of these renewable and recyclable resources will contribute to reducing the carbon footprint of buildings. Additionally, advancements in insulation technologies, like aerogel and cellulose, will enhance energy efficiency and reduce the demand for heating and cooling²⁶. Overall, the future of sustainable building in Canada is moving towards a more eco-friendly, resilient, and technologically advanced construction landscape.

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