Is that condo really “green?”
With all the new “green” condominiums being built today, it can be hard to determine which are the most environmentally conscious.
To identify the truly green buildings, start by separating the “must-haves” from the “nice-to-haves.”
The must-haves. Certification is at the top of the list. True green developers are experienced in environmentally friendly building practices and their condominiums are backed by a rating system such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design).
The Canada Green Building Council administers this arm’s-length evaluation of site development, water and energy efficiency, materials, indoor air quality and design.
Many buildings are working toward LEED status, but none can be certified until completion. Buyers should consider the developer’s track record. In Canada so far, only one high-rise multi-residential building has been LEED Canada-certified. Radiance @ MintoGardens, the 33-storey high-rise at Yonge and Sheppard developed by MintoUrban Communities, achieved an advanced Silver Level rating. Minto builds all of its new condominiums, including MintoMidtown, the 54 and 39-storey towers at Eglinton and Yonge, to similar standards.
The next must-have is genuine savings. Will your condominium fees actually be lower? If the building is part of Natural Resources Canada’s CBIP program, which requires a 25 per cent reduction in energy use over code, you’ll keep more green in your wallet. Since occupancy in late 2004, Radiance @ MintoGardens has used about one-third less energy than similar buildings. Residents have saved about $200,000 a year in common-area energy costs and $55,000 in water fees.
Other fundamental differences? Superior whole-building features such as stairwell lighting that turns off automatically when not in use and common heating and cooling systems that reflect a commitment to energy savings.
A very important must-have: better air quality. Most current condominiums take air from the corridors - not the outdoors - to supply “fresh” air to the suites. Environmentally advanced condominiums use superior technology such as HRV fan coils in every suite to recover exhaust heat and deliver fresh filtered air that is distributed evenly throughout the home.
Construction materials are important too. Look for low-emitting materials such as hardwood, ceramic and low-toxicity paints.
You want a condo that’s green inside - and out. Where is the development located? If it’s on subway and transit routes, and close to shops and restaurants, you’ll drive less and reduce smog-producing greenhouse gases.
The last must-have is empowerment. A green condominium puts energy management into your hands, with individual metering systems in every suite for water and electricity, dual-flush toilets, user-adjustable temperature and airflow control, and “all-off” switches - making it easy for everyone to conserve. You want to pay for your own energy use, not your neighbour’s.
Nice-to-haves. True green condominiums come with LEED certification, verified energy reduction, whole-building features, air quality and empowerment of residents. Once these fundamental must-haves are in place, nice-to-have extras such as car-sharing vehicles, bike parking and even solar and wind power can make a building even more economical and environmentally friendly.
The good news is, it’s possible to choose a bona fide green condominium today. When you do, you’ll breathe easier and save money.
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Contact the Jeffrey Team for more information - 416-388-1960