Revolutionary Building Techniques for Eco-Friendly Housing Solutions in Canada

A frequently cited finding from a study conducted by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) suggests that, by the end of 2030, Canada must construct 5.8 million housing units to reinstate affordability—an increase of 3.5 million units compared to the current construction rate. However, the challenge lies in the potential environmental impact of hastily constructed homes meeting today's minimum standards. Such homes, lacking proper design, insulation, and air sealing, may fail to shield occupants from extreme weather events associated with climate change, exposing them to heightened energy and maintenance costs.

Efforts to address the housing shortage need to prioritize sustainability for increased productivity in the construction sector. Fortunately, numerous construction practices can simultaneously achieve net-zero emissions and enhance efficiency. Examples include pre-manufacturing building components off-site to ensure quality and avoid weather-related disruptions, integrated project management to enhance accountability and reduce costs, and designing buildings with simpler shapes for improved energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Promoting green construction can attract environmentally conscious workers, and implementing net-zero emission building codes for publicly financed housing provides a clear roadmap for the construction sector. Constructing more homes in urban areas with access to amenities increases density and reduces costs, while electrified mid-rise construction offers a more sustainable alternative to traditional building materials. Smart technologies, including sensors and digital modeling, contribute to improved efficiency, safety, and energy optimization.

To address the housing crisis and prepare for a net-zero emissions future, policymakers must push for higher performance building standards and an innovative construction strategy. This involves building on existing initiatives such as those by the National Research Council and leveraging partnerships like Natural Resources Canada’s codes acceleration fund. By urging the construction industry to adopt these practices, policymakers can not only alleviate the housing crisis but also contribute to a sustainable response to the climate crisis.