Preparing our homes and buildings for the new climate and energy reality is a multi-decade megaproject. Deep retrofits will make our existing buildings healthier, safer, and less polluting, and create jobs in every part of Canada. As we rebuild the economy, we need to equip the workforce with the skills required to handle the coming wave of retrofit projects.
According to the Pembina Institute, the B.C. government should ensure that economic relief and stimulus programs enhance and accelerate progress toward the vision and goals of the province’s climate plan, CleanBC.
Today, the Pembina Institute released Rebuilding a Resilient B.C., an action plan for investing in jobs and better health and well-being for British Columbians.
Throughout the pandemic we’ve addressed the need for a climate-friendly recovery to stave off the bigger global crisis of climate change and the importance of economic stimulus for green job creation as Canada seeks to rebuild a better economy coming out of this pandemic.
B.C. is in a position to be a leader in economic reconciliation and decolonizing clean energy policy. We will continue to support and advocate for the advancement of this new policy, driven by our relationship with Indigenous communities through our policy work and those that are ready to enter into the energy market.
Making our buildings future-ready including the installation of high performance windows and patio doors, calls for retrofitting with an understanding of climate change impacts. This means identifying potential shocks and stresses, and implementing appropriate solutions.
Not just rebuilding the economy, but a complete retrofit and establishment of building codes that support the needs to combat climate change. This is the moment to create a roadmap for a society that is more resilient to these macro shocks – whether they are brought about by a pandemic or climate change.
A deep retrofit of homes and buildings is the megaproject Canada needs. Post-COVID is an opportune time to invest nationally in climate-oriented upgrades that will improve efficiency and move us toward a low-carbon future.
B.C. has a significant opportunity to build out the clean economy, to grow clean jobs, and to be a global leader on climate action.