Developers and homeowners alike need to take meaningful steps forward on the path to a sustainable future. How can we establish attainable environmentally friendly goals in the face of economic uncertainty?

We can no longer ignore the fact that our planet is in danger. Concerning conditions over the last decade clearly indicate that climate change is getting worse, and there is no reprieve in sight. We have experienced the devastating impact of damaging winds, torrential downpours, forest fires, and rising temperatures to neighbourhoods right across the country.

Building Greener homes

A greener future is not possible without building greener homes. TRREB CEO John DiMichele states that “we know there is a better way to build homes and communities. Before property developers construct their next project, they need a long-term vision with an eye on environmental sustainability from raw materials to Green designs that will benefit, not burden, future generations.”

Leading the charge

It’s never too late to start investigating Greener options and taking action. In this spirit, TRREB partnered with the Pembina Institute to reveal the effects electrical vehicles (EV) will have on the residential real estate sector. There is a strong need for multi-unit residential buildings to install charging stations as more EVs hit our roads. Setting the wheels in motion to create the necessary infrastructure now is absolutely imperative to support a more sustainable future.

Eco-efficient upgrades

However, the responsibility of prioritizing sustainability does not fall to developers alone. Homeowners also play a key role and must make choices and changes to protect and conserve resources while optimizing energy in their homes. Reducing consumption in all aspects of our lives is the most effective way to live Green and realize its many benefits. The City of Toronto offers grants and incentives to improve homes and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These programs can assist homeowners with many upgrades to greatly increase energy efficiency. This includes replacing their furnace with a heat pump, upgrading their windows and insulation or installing a rooftop solar system.

To address the climate crisis head on, an immediate collaborative effort is needed from governments, developers and homeowners. The road ahead is long, it is worthwhile prioritizing affordable sustainability goals in real estate and is a step in the right direction. Together it is possible to create lasting change and begin to set the trend towards a greener tomorrow for future generations.

For more information on how you can begin implementing more sustainable options in your home, visit betterhomesto.ca. You can also stay up to date on real estate trends with our monthly Market Watch. We break down prices, sales and new listings each month with an easy to glance report. Visit trreb.ca to explore the latest look into the housing market. Plus, connect with a TRREB member realtor and search listings in real-time on any device.