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Sustainability

Understand sustainability in Canadian real estate — what it means, why it matters, and how it enhances long-term value.

Sustainability

August 01, 2025


What is Sustainability?

Sustainability in real estate refers to designing, constructing, and operating properties in ways that minimize environmental impact, support social well-being, and ensure long-term economic viability.

Why Sustainability Matters in Real Estate

In Canadian real estate, sustainability is increasingly a priority for developers, investors, and municipalities seeking to reduce carbon emissions and support resilient communities.



Key considerations:
  • Energy efficiency and water conservation
  • Use of renewable materials and resources
  • Proximity to transit and services
  • Social equity and health impacts



Understanding sustainability supports compliance with environmental standards and can enhance property value.

Example of Sustainability in Action

The office tower was designed with sustainability in mind, earning LEED Platinum certification for its energy and water-saving features.

Key Takeaways

  • Focuses on minimizing environmental and social impacts
  • Includes energy, water, and material efficiency
  • Improves resilience and reduces long-term costs
  • Can enhance brand and market appeal
  • Supported by certifications like LEED and BOMA BEST

Related Terms

Additional Terms

Building Inspection

A building inspection is a detailed assessment of a property’s condition, typically performed by a qualified inspector prior to purchase, sale, or. more

Build-to-Suit

Build-to-suit is a real estate development strategy where a property is custom-built to meet the specifications of a tenant or buyer.. more

Back-End Ratio

The back-end ratio, or debt-to-income ratio, measures the percentage of a borrower’s gross monthly income spent on total monthly debt obligations,. more

Airspace Rights

Airspace rights are the legal rights to control, use, or sell the space above a parcel of land, separate from the ownership of the land itself.. more

Absorption Rate Analysis

Absorption rate analysis is the evaluation of how quickly available properties in a given market are being sold or leased during a specific time period.. more

Vacancy Rate

The vacancy rate is the percentage of all available rental units in a property or market that are unoccupied at a given time.. more

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