Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently issued ministerial mandate letters that outline overall expectations and policy objectives for the nation, which include building codes changes and a net-zero emissions building strategy.
Trudeau’s instructions contain a mandate to develop national model building codes “that align with national climate objectives and provide a standard for climate-resilient buildings.” Trudeau also wants a net-zero emissions building code and model retrofit code developed by the end of 2024.
Currently, Canada relies on a committee of provincial and territorial volunteers to drive building code development. Trudeau’s recent actions reflect “a recognition that accelerating building code adoption, enforcement, and compliance will require federal action to spur market readiness activities in provinces and municipalities,” according to published reports.
Trudeau has also called for a fossil fuel emission cap, a 75% methane emissions reduction this decade, and a net-zero electricity grid by 2035.
Related Stories
| Feb 8, 2012
OSHA offers free health and safety consulting for small businesses
The consultants offer confidential, non-punitive advice.
| Feb 8, 2012
Controversy over pay for prisoners on roofing job in Michigan
The disagreement was over whether the prisoners should have been paid prevailing wage for their brief time on the job because the project was paid for with a U.S. Department of Energy grant.
| Jan 30, 2012
ZigBee and ISO 50001: Two new standards to make buildings greener
These developments demonstrate the dynamic nature of the market and the continued need for development of program standards of many different types that help builders and owners translate high performance and sustainable buildings goals into practical measures on the ground.
| Jan 30, 2012
New firm-fixed-price rules on federal contracts impact construction industry
Contractors will need to be on the lookout for policies such as the Contractor Accountability for Quality clause.
| Jan 30, 2012
Roofer’s fatal plunge demonstrates need for fall-prevention regulations
“The biggest problem is getting our workers to use the equipment,” says Michael J. Florio, executive director of the organization.
| Jan 26, 2012
Tampa moves to streamlined online permitting system
The system will replace an inefficient patchwork of old software and is designed to provide businesses, homeowners, and contractors with online access to permitting and licensing information.
| Jan 26, 2012
EPA to collect more data, seek comments before finalizing mud rule
The EPA says it will seek more data and is accepting comments until March 5.
| Jan 26, 2012
Industry challenges Connecticut's suit over defective construction work
The dispute arose over multimillion-dollar leaks at the University of Connecticut's law library.
