Ryan Going
Project Manager, UTAT
Pomerleau’s focus on sustainable construction and ESG initiatives are helping to reshape Canada’s building industry.
Did you know that buildings and construction activities account for 30 per cent of Canada’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions? The sector has a key role to play in the fight against climate change. That’s why Pomerleau joined the Government of Canada’s Net-Zero Challenge in 2023. The general contractor intends to help lead the transition to a low-carbon economy and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
To reach this goal, integrating the principles of environmental protection, social engagement, and sound governance (ESG) on worksites and in offices is key. In the last year, Pomerleau has achieved success with several of its sustainable projects.
The University of Toronto’s Academic Wood Tower
The University of Toronto’s Academic Wood Tower (UTAT) has begun to take shape, serving as a beacon of progress for environmental infrastructure. Once completed, the mass timber building is expected to be the tallest of its kind in Canada and one of the tallest timber and steel hybrid structures in North America.
“We’re seeing more and more owners adopt mass timber construction due to its many advantages, including biophilic design, reduced carbon footprint, and speed of construction. As one of Canada’s leading general contractors, Pomerleau is well-positioned to leverage our experience in mass timber construction to deliver these types of projects across Canada,” says Ryan Going, Project Manager for UTAT.
715 Mikinàk Street
Pomerleau recently built the Ottawa Community Housing neighbourhood, 715 Mikinàk Street. The design was inspired by Passive House standards, which seek to reduce GHG emissions and operational costs for owners and tenants. Solar panels were installed on the residences’ roofs, producing power equivalent to charging 16 million smartphones yearly. In addition to the environmental contributions, Mikinàk allocated 20 units to the Indigenous community.
As one of Canada’s Greenest Employers, Pomerleau is making a commitment to advance its ESG performance. Right now, over half of its building sector projects are aiming for sustainable certifications. With the foundations established to build a sustainable future, Pomerleau is on track to achieve its ESG goals and make a difference within the construction industry.
To learn more, visit pomerleau.ca.
