3 EXAMPLES OF SUSTAINABLE DEMOLITION PROJECTS IN CANADA
Sustainable demolition is the process of demolishing buildings while minimizing environmental impact and maximizing resource recovery. In Canada, the construction and demolition (C&D) sector generates around 27% of the country's total waste. To try to minimize this and bring the numbers down, Canada has implemented some sustainable demolition projects, which aim to reduce this waste and divert as much of it as possible from landfills. In this blog post, we will explore three great examples of successful sustainable demolition projects that have taken place in Canada.
VANCOUVER HOUSE (VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA)
Vancouver House is a high-rise condominium tower located in Vancouver, British Columbia. This 59-story building is the result of a sustainable demolition project that involved the recycling of more than 100,000 tonnes of concrete, steel, and other materials. The demolition process was carefully planned and executed to ensure that the maximum amount of material was diverted from landfills. The recycled materials were used in the construction of the new building, reducing the demand for virgin materials and lowering the project's carbon footprint. This is a great example of the kind of sustainable housing that can be created by using sustainable demolition practices.
TORONTO PEARSON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (TORONTO, ONTARIO)
Toronto Pearson International Airport is Canada's largest airport, serving more than 50 million passengers annually. The airport has implemented a sustainable demolition program that aims to reduce waste and recycle materials from demolished buildings. The program includes the use of specialized equipment to separate and sort materials, such as concrete, wood, and steel. These materials are then transported to recycling facilities where they are processed for reuse. The program has helped the airport to reduce its waste and promote sustainability. It is a perfect example of how even larger operations like a massive international airport can make a positive impact by reducing the amount of waste they generate in the world.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY RETAIL OUTLETS (ACROSS CANADA)
Habitat for Humanity ReStores are retail outlets that sell new and gently used building materials, appliances, and furniture at affordable prices. These stores are operated by local Habitat for Humanity organizations and rely on donations from individuals and businesses. The materials sold in these stores are diverted from landfills, reducing waste and promoting sustainability. Habitat for Humanity ReStores operate in communities across Canada, providing an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional building materials. This is an example of how deconstruction projects can put their salvaged materials to good use, especially when they themselves don’t have a need for the materials.
Sustainable demolition is an important aspect of the construction industry in Canada. It is essential to reduce waste, conserve resources, and promote sustainability. The examples discussed in this blog post demonstrate the potential of sustainable demolition projects to achieve these goals. Vancouver House, Habitat for Humanity ReStores, and Toronto Pearson International Airport are just a few examples of successful sustainable demolition projects in Canada. By following these examples, we can work towards a more sustainable future.
