B.C. can seize huge economic, environmental opportunity with clean concrete

VANCOUVER, B.C. — British Columbia has a unique opportunity to lead Canada in reducing the carbon footprint of construction projects by adopting clean cement and concrete solutions, as outlined in a new Pembina Institute report The Opportunity to Lead on Clean Concrete.

Concrete, the world’s most widely used building material, is also one of the most carbon-intensive. Cement, a critical ingredient in concrete, accounts for approximately 7% of global greenhouse gas emissions. The report outlines key actions B.C. can take to decarbonize this essential sector, positioning the province as a leader in sustainable construction practices.

Pembina research shows nearly one-third of concrete in Canada is purchased by governments, making public procurement a powerful tool for driving sector transformation. By embracing this and other key measures, B.C. can maintain its reputation as a leader in practical, cost-efficient construction solutions while delivering real economic benefits to its communities.

Recommendations

Adopt the Federal Standard on Embodied Carbon in construction
Remove prescriptive specifications
Implement a Buy Clean policy
Sustain industry supports

Quotes

“Government leadership in clean procurement and performance targets will ensure that the use of lower carbon building materials become the new standard. This is B.C.’s chance to lead the way in smart construction solutions that inspire other jurisdictions to follow suit.”
— Rachel Sutton, Buildings senior analyst, Pembina Institute

“B.C. has the tools, expertise, and local know-how to build confidence among stakeholders in the use of lower-carbon concrete in their projects. To seize this opportunity, the province needs sustained policies and investments to increase the uptake of clean concrete, lead the way in future-proofing communities, and boost local innovation and jobs.”
— Betsy Agar, Buildings program director, Pembina Institute

Quick facts

Cement, the critical binding agent in concrete, represents 7% of global GHG emissions and 1.5% of Canada’s emissions.
Nearly 1/3 of concrete in Canada is purchased by governments.
The government of B.C. buys 1/5 of the province's cement and concrete.
The Federal Treasury Board's Standard on Embodied Carbon requires a 10% reduction of ready-mix concrete used in government projects.