Canadian Government Confirms Support for Transition to Net Zero

By John Boling

Minister of Environment and Climate Change Steven Guilbeault outlined Canada’s support for a net-zero emissions economy through the fostering of economic environmentalism and a range of policies, including the launch of the independent Net-Zero Advisory Body, which will provide advice on the most likely pathways for Canada to reach net zero. Guilbeault made his remarks during a March 20, 2023, speech at the Americana 2023 environmental conference.

Guilbeault announced 16 research projects across the country that will support the Net-Zero Advisory Body’s goals and identify, accelerate, and evaluate mitigation actions that can help Canada achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Of interest to the building enclosure sector are the following four studies:

• University of British Columbia: “Embodied Carbon in Buildings: Barriers and Solutions to Effective Policies and Actions”
• The Boltzmann Institute: “Two Pathways to Achieving Zero Emissions from Buildings”
• Carleton University: “Aligning Energy Efficiency Policy with Net-Zero Emissions”
• Pembina Institute for Appropriate Development: “Regulatory Solutions: Analysis and Recommendations to Accelerate the Electrification of Buildings, Transport, and Gas Production”

Analysis: These studies, when complete, will provide insights for government officials, building owners, and others in the construction sector to incorporate into their plans. However, the fact that these studies are just being commenced shows a definitive lag between action and what the sector can do now to reach net-zero goals.