Across the globe, efforts to build sustainably using green technology are increasing, mostly due to the need to lower greenhouse gases and reduce carbon footprints. Cormode & Dickson uses innovation and green technology in Alberta construction to find opportunities for energy efficiency right from a project’s design. We work with our clients to implement green technology into their projects; we can build towards LEED® or Green Globes® certification or even just use their programs as guidelines. Ultimately, our environmental initiatives and energy efficiency on projects provides you with cost savings incentives over your project’s life; increases the attractiveness of your project for tenants, investors, and clients; contributes to your organization’s sustainability efforts; reduces your building’s carbon footprint; and positively contributes to society’s movement towards sustainability.
Because buildings generate up to 35 per cent of all greenhouse gases, 35 per cent of landfill waste comes from construction and demolition activities, and 70 per cent of municipal water is consumed in and around buildings, the need for greener building is essential. Here are some of the ways that Cormode & Dickson implements green technology into our construction:
Modular Construction
Modular construction is basically a green construction technology because offsite construction reduces site disturbances, environmental impacts, and vehicular traffic. It also creates less construction waste than conventional construction, protects green spaces, uses energy more efficiently, promotes deconstruction, and allows for repurposing existing buildings.
Pre-engineered Steel Construction
Essentially, steel is already an environmentally friendly material since it’s 100% recyclable and is continually reused. Steel structures and pre-engineered construction create minimal waste, are very durable, flexible, and long-lasting, safe, reusable, and efficient. durability, flexibility, long lasting investment, safety, reusability and efficiency. Each ton of recycled steel saves 2,500 pounds of iron ore and approximately 1,000 pounds of coal. Most steel utilized in the construction of steel buildings consists of 70% recycled content – in fact, the Green Building Resource Guide gives steel framing its highest 5 icon rating making it a true “green” product.
Solar Outfitting
Solar outfitting uses the sun’s radiation to generate either solar thermal energy or solar photovoltaic energy which heat water and air or convert sunlight into electricity, respectively. Canadian cities have great solar potential and this renewable energy is increasing in use and popularity.
Energy Efficient Outfitting
Through green building and energy efficient outfitting – think insulation, appliances, windows, HVAC systems – these sustainable, green features can be implemented right from the project start. Both LEED® and Green Globes® provide designers and builders with excellent guidelines and at Cormode * Dickson, we have green technology professionals that can advise you on the best energy efficient outfitting for your project.
Analyzing a Building’s Carbon Footprint
As we work with you to design your project, we can estimate your building’s carbon footprint (the sum of carbon dioxide emissions per year), ensuring that we create project with reduced greenhouse gas emissions. We do this by calculating the emissions based on annual fuel consumption and then we adjust the design and outfitting accordingly.
3D Modelling
Cormode & Dickson uses Building Information Modeling (BIM) to aid in efficient designing, planning, and building. BIM is increasingly being used to achieve sustainable construction outcomes by providing insight into how design impacts building performance. At its heart, BIM encourages a collaborative, integrative design process which brings all disciplines together in creating a sustainable project. Plus, BIM helps to minimize onsite waste and works beautifully with pre-fabricated and modular construction.
Feasibility Studies: Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
As a part of the feasibility studies we offer to our clients, we do Environmental Impact Assessments to determine the anticipated environmental effects of your project, increasing environmental awareness and opening a dialogue for how to mitigate those factors.
At Cormode & Dickson, we are dedicated to building sustainable projects using green technologies. Contact us about your Edmonton construction project today.
