From Brussels to British Columbia

B.C. has acknowledged through various initiatives that the built environment is an important area in which to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. These initiatives include the recently announced Climate Leadership Plan, commitments to “lead the way to net-zero” as a member of the Pacific Coast Collaborative, and setting targets in the Energy Efficient Building Strategy. In order for a net-zero target for buildings to contribute meaningfully toward achieving B.C.’s climate targets, an aggressive and ambitious pathway must be set — and B.C. has yet to define its path. The example of the Brussels–Capital Region in Belgium may provide some inspiration for how B.C. can set a bold trajectory and successfully realize ultra-high efficiency for buildings as part of the climate solution.