Natural Resources Canada and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) announced for a feasibility study to support the development of a new net zero library and art gallery known as Junction East in the City of Greater Sudbury, funded by FCM’s Green Municipal Fund (GMF).
The now-completed feasibility study evaluated the environmental and financial performance of various green building technologies, including district energy, ground-source heat pumps, rooftop solar photovoltaics, building automation systems, high building envelope performance and rainwater harvesting. The study investigated various green building certifications and estimated embodied greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to assist the architectural team in selecting low-impact and environmentally preferable materials and products.
“Our government is pleased to support sustainable infrastructure in communities across Canada. Today’s investment is an important step in the development of a net-zero art gallery and library in the City of Greater Sudbury. This is a great example of community-driven innovation and climate action,” said Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Natural Resources.
The Green Municipal Fund, administered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, is funded through an endowment by the Government of Canada. GMF helps local governments switch to sustainable practices faster. Its unique mix of funding, resources and training gives municipalities the tools they need to build resiliency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
“Local governments own sixty percent of the country’s infrastructure. With support from the Green Municipal Fund, municipalities of all sizes are implementing smart sustainable solutions to improve their infrastructure. Just like the City of Greater Sudbury, which has taken the necessary steps to ensure the optimum approach for energy performance of the Junction East project. Together, we are building resilient communities, accelerating the path to net-zero and helping achieve Canada’s climate goals.” said Taneen Rudyk, FCM president.
To protect our environment and reduce the impacts of climate change, the Government of Canada has committed to reducing Canada’s total GHG emissions by 40-45 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030, and to reaching net-zero by 2050. The buildings sector is the third largest source of emissions in Canada and is key to meeting our objectives. Greening our homes and buildings will require all of our efforts.
Featured image: (City of Greater Sudbury)
