Program Overview
The Codes Acceleration Program for Indigenous Communities is an initiative aimed at providing training, resources, and support to Indigenous communities to help accelerate the adoption and implementation of the highest feasible energy performance building codes. This project is part of Canada’s Green Buildings Strategy, which is dedicated to decarbonizing the building sector by funding actions that support this adoption.
What are Building Codes?
National and provincial building codes are essential guidelines for constructing and maintaining structures. They cover various aspects, including safety, accessibility, energy efficiency, and environmental impact.
In Canada, the National Building Code of Canada (NBC) and National Energy Code of Canada for Building (NECB) have been developed by the Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes (CCBFC) 1 as an objective-based national model code that can be adopted by provincial and territorial governments.
2 The NBC sets out technical requirements for the design and construction of new buildings, as well as the alteration, change of use and demolition of existing buildings.
Benefits of Enhanced Building Codes
High-performance building codes are essential for:
- Reducing Energy Consumption: Implementing the highest tiers of energy codes can lead to a 60-70% reduction in energy consumption compared to baseline levels.
- Cost Savings: Lower energy consumption translates into significant cost savings for communities.
- Environmental Impact: Improved building codes play a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a healthier planet
Building Codes
What are Building Codes?
National and provincial building codes are essential guidelines for constructing and maintaining structures. They cover various aspects, including safety, accessibility, energy efficiency, and environmental impact.
In Canada, the National Building Code of Canada (NBC) and National Energy Code of Canada for Building (NECB) have been developed by the Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes (CCBFC) “as an objective-based national model code that can be adopted by provincial and territorial governments.” (National Building Code of Canada 2020 / issued by the Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes, National Research Council of Canada.: NR24-28/2020E-PDF – Government of Canada Publications – Canada.ca). The NBC sets out technical requirements for the design and construction of new buildings, as well as the alteration, change of use and demolition of existing buildings. (National Building Code of Canada 2020 – National Research Council Canada)
Benefits of Enhanced Building Codes
High-performance building codes are essential for:
- Reducing Energy Consumption: Implementing the highest tiers of energy codes can lead to a 60-70% reduction in energy consumption compared to baseline levels.
- Cost Savings: Lower energy consumption translates into significant cost savings for communities.
- Environmental Impact: Improved building codes play a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a healthier planet
Building Stronger Connections
Indigenous communities are integral partners in this endeavour. By blending Indigenous knowledge with sustainability practices, the program aims to foster a network of Indigenous energy efficiency champions. These champions will be pivotal in promoting the adoption of building energy codes.
Building Code Adoption
In Canada, many Indigenous communities have adopted building codes emphasizing sustainability and cultural sensitivity. Communities like Ditidaht, Dokis, Fisher River, and Haisla manage their lands through certified codes, allowing tailored approaches to construction that meet environmental standards and community needs.
ECO Canada's Role
As the facilitator of the Codes Acceleration Program for Indigenous Communities, ECO Canada is committed to leading this transformative initiative through robust project management, community engagement, and educational support.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Designing and distributing tailored educational materials and toolkits for Indigenous communities.
- Conducting culturally relevant workshops and training sessions to enhance local capabilities.
- Ensuring that solutions are aligned with the needs of the communities.
- Facilitating networking events to connect Indigenous energy efficiency champions with other stakeholders.
- Leading outreach campaigns to promote the benefits of high-performance building codes.
Join us in this crucial initiative as we work towards a more sustainable and energy-efficient future for all.
more information
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This page was developed thanks to the financial support of Natural Resources Canada
