According to a United Nations report, buildings, along with their materials and construction, account for 39% of global CO2 emissions; and according to the federal government, they represent 13% of general emissions in Canada. In our last blog, we looked at how LEED certification and Canadian Green Building principles were driving environmentally friendly construction in the GTA. We also looked at examples of green buildings in three segments – corporate, residential, and educational – and some of the features that made these projects notable.
Gen Z Driving Eco-Consciousness
Millennials and Generation Z have grown up with a greater sense of environmental consciousness – with climate issues and reducing the global carbon footprint prominent issues of concern. This has been hastened by the pandemic with 63% of Canadians stating that the COVID-19 pandemic has made them more environmentally conscious according to a study by 3M’s State of Science Index (SOSI). Generation Z skew higher in this sentiment at 81%.
Skilled workers including those who are trade union job workers, have an immense opportunity moving forward because of the mass retirements in their ranks of older workers, as well as the low uptake by those entering the workforce to replenish that number. Add a healthy government infrastructural budget and a positive outlook for the construction industry, it speaks to greater choices for trade union members.
Now, we will expand our look to three new high-profile building projects that promise to continue this energy-saving and green approach to construction.
Green Authority Leads the Pack
One of the newer construction projects that has been designed and built with the environment in mind is the new Headquarters of the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), an 87,000 square foot structure adjacent to the Black Creek Ravine. Uniquely built almost entirely of wood sourced from Ontario, the building reflects the TRCA objectives which is to strive for a net-zero carbon and energy-efficient design. The TRCA is responsible for managing and protecting Toronto’s natural water and ravine systems. With this construction, they are ‘walking the talk’ in terms of inspiring their employees who are very environmentally focused. Some of the key ‘green’ features of the project include solar thermal panels on the roof, four solar chimneys, waterwalls to reduce energy use, electric vehicle charging stations, and rainwater harvesting to irrigate a green roof.
Green Tech by the Water
On the shores of Lake Ontario comes the Waterfront Innovation Centre, a huge 475,000 square foot technology complex, home to 2,000 employees. This prime piece of real estate ambitiously is targeting LEED Platinum certification, the highest possible green building rating. Features include under-floor air distribution, automation controls, and sensors to monitor occupancy and light levels. With ultra-high-speed broadband, this tech hub firmly situates progressiveness into the natural lush surroundings of the waterfront.
Indigenously Green
In the West Don Lands on 2.4 acres of land is the new site for Anishnawbe Health Toronto, a centre for wellness, education, housing, and childcare, designed to fully embrace Indigenous design principles. The indigenous hub features indoor “forests” which are not only beautiful but also enhance air quality. The exterior woodwork is inspired by basket weaving and offers shade while cooling the building. The structure also has a raised Indigenous Peoples Garden with a bioswale and hyper-local vegetation which is a feature that anchors the site. The Indigenous Hub is also designed to act as a physical and spiritual gateway to Toronto’s Port Lands revitalization renewal project.
Exciting Opportunities Await Union Job Workers
These are just three of many new and exciting architectural building projects that are set to transform the GTA. As a skilled trade worker, you can be part of this transformation and support economic growth. By joining a union, you’ll get the opportunity to train, hone your skills, earn competitive wages, and gain job security. Best of all, you will be helping to transform somebody’s vision of a more environmentally friendly world into a reality. Find out more by contacting us today for union jobs.
