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RBC Net Zero Building Forum

A collaborative session towards solutions across key sector themes – from new approaches to development to incentivizing retrofits to rethinking our energy systems.

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Date:

Mar 15, 2023

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Location:

3 Lower Jarvis St. Toronto

Overview

On March 15th, Brookfield Sustainability Institute partnered with the Royal Bank of Canada to consult on the Decarbonization of the Built Environment. This effort was supported by: 70 industry thought leaders composed of developers, construction firms, architecture and engineering firms, building owners and managers, associations, community-based organizations, utilities and non-profits; and 15 students from Toronto and Milan documenting, visualizing and assisting with facilitation.

A Report was Report Launched with RBC: Climate Action Institute on May 17.

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What are the Streams?

Ways of Sharing

• The relationship between Working & Learning
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• Themes: harmonization of work and learning practices, people-friendly workspaces, sustainable learning methodologies
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‍• Facilitator: Eric Meerkamper
• Case Study: FireINtegra

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In a world facing sustainability challenges, the relationship between work and learning needs a paradigm shift. Not only do traditional models contribute to environmental strain but emerging technologies are increasingly both enabling change and disrupting existing work and learning models, creating a pressing need for sustainable innovations that harmonize work and learning practices.

This Stream will explore sustainable innovations in learning and work.

Determine how cutting-edge practices can provide solutions to the environmental and social upheaval that is underway. From the harmonization of work and learning practices, to people-friendly workspaces, to sustainable learning methodologies, we'll delve into transformative solutions that shape a future that is more socially sustainable.

• The relationship between Health & Wellness
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• Themes: mental well-being, community resilience, and inclusive care strategies

• Facilitator: Jane Cooke-Lauder
• Case Study: Source Farm
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Exploring novel ways of caring for individuals and communities.

In our fast-paced world, health challenges abound, impacting both individuals and communities. The traditional approaches to healthcare often fall short in addressing the holistic well-being of individuals, leaving communities vulnerable to various health-related issues.

This Stream will explore innovative solutions in the realm of health and wellness.

We’ll lead discussions on holistic approaches to healthcare, mental well-being, community resilience, and inclusive care strategies. We’ll delve into the latest advancements, compassionate strategies, and collaborative initiatives that contribute to healthier societies.

Ways of Caring

Ways of Living

• The relationship between Housing & Community
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• Themes: redefine urban living, infrastructure development, and housing design

• Facilitator: Kristina Verner
• Case Study: Eglinton West
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Our current living practices and infrastructure often contribute to environmental degradation and urban challenges.

Traditional approaches to housing and infrastructure can be unsustainable, posing threats to both the well-being of individuals and the health of the planet.

This Stream will explore cutting-edge solutions and sustainable practices that redefine urban living, infrastructure development, and housing design. We’ll envision and create a blueprint for tomorrow’s living spaces where comfort and environmental harmony coexist.

Key Insights

Ideate key recommendations for the Built sector to decarbonization and Net Zero "game changers"
Focus on New Builds, Retrofitting Buildings, Retrofitting Homes and organizing communities of action, Low emission materials, Sustainable energy systems

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Outcomes

The insights gathered during the workshop served as valuable inputs for the RBC Economics & Thought Leadership report titled "High Rise, Low Carbon: Canada's $40 billion Net Zero Building Challenge." These findings will inform and shape future initiatives, serving as a precedent to inspire and guide Canadians toward understanding the urgent need and growing opportunities associated with sustainable buildings. By leveraging the literature and knowledge generated through this collaborative effort, stakeholders can work together to create a more sustainable built environment that aligns with net-zero goals and fosters a greener future.