Image courtesy Zebx
The Zero Emissions Building Exchange (ZEBx) in Vancouver aims to remove barriers to zero emissions building adoption by facilitating knowledge sharing, fostering relationships, and increasing capacity for exemplary buildings.
The first of its kind in Canada, ZEBx is a catalyst for emerging industry innovation in response to the sustainability policies of the City of Vancouver.
By 2025, new building projects in the City of Vancouver must have near zero emissions, as outlined in the city’s 2016 Zero Emission Building Plan. British Columbia’s Energy Step Code aims to have all residential and commercial construction designed “net zero ready” by 2032. With the imminent wide-spread adoption of low-energy building design and construction, ZEBx’s launch is a direct response to industry’s capacity challenge. ZEBx will support local industry and accelerate market transformation by identifying opportunities and navigating barriers to advance design and construction practices towards a low-carbon future.
“We are thrilled to launch Canada’s first Zero Emissions Building Exchange. Zero emission buildings are the future of Canadian infrastructure, and provide healthy, liveable, and affordable places to live, play, and work,” said Christian Cianfrone, executive director of ZEBx. “Until today, industry lacked the space necessary to collaborate and effectively exchange knowledge. Through ZEBx, we will create both a physical and virtual space to develop a community of practice and connect industry with relevant, curated content.”
ZEBx will facilitate knowledge exchange through a range of initiatives such as dialogues, project tours, and demonstrations. A neutral, one-stop-shop for low-energy building resources, ZEBx aims to empower builders, developers, architects, and designers with the tools necessary to achieve their zero emissions targets.
ZEBx is funded by the City of Vancouver, hosted by the Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) and has established key partnerships with Passive House Canada and the Open Green Building Society. ZEBx has received additional support from industry stakeholders, companies, government agencies, and NGOs.
