Statistics Canada
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Making our buildings green

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Even before Canada signed the Kyoto Protocol, the construction industry has been using innovative materials and advanced practices to reduce environmental waste and greenhouse gas emissions.

In 1999, one in five construction companies used innovative materials. Some 15% used high performance concrete (concrete modified to be stronger, longer lasting or superior in some way), 13% used composite materials (such as fibre-reinforced plastic) and 10% used recycled plastic components.

Also, 11% of construction companies had deconstruction and reuse systems, meaning they take old buildings apart rather than simply demolishing them, so that materials can be reused or recycled.

Chart: Construction and related businesses' obstacles to using new or improved building products, systems and equipmentNon-residential construction projects are more likely to incorporate innovative materials. Overall, businesses in construction and related industries from New Brunswick use innovative materials the most, and companies in Alberta the least.

Of all businesses in these industries, 40% identified at least one obstacle to using new or improved building systems, products and equipment. The most common obstacles are the high cost of the new practices, a shortage of workers skilled in the new techniques, and too few interested clients.

To reduce the number of obstacles, the government has introduced incentives to use energy-efficient materials and practices. The R-2000 program encourages new energy-efficient technologies and teaches builders how to use them. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) offers a refund on mortgage insurance for Canadians who buy or build a home that uses energy efficiently. And the Residential Rehabilitation Assistance program helps low-income households make energy-efficient repairs and renovations.