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


Canada residential unit sales by month, actual, 2019 and 2024-2026. Data through June 2026. Source:
Canada residential sales-to-new-listings ratio, actual, January 2025 to June 2026. Source:
Canada residential months of inventory, actual, January 2025 to June 2026. Source: Source:
Year-over-year change in residential average sale price for Canada, Ontario, British Columbia and Alberta, January 2022 to June 2026. Average price is shown here as a regional mix measure, not a substitute for HPI or local comparable sales. Source:
Year-over-year change in residential unit sales for Canada, Ontario, British Columbia and Alberta, January 2024 to June 2026. Source: 






15284-15296 Fleetwood Drive in Surrey. (Flat Architecture, 1098261 BC Ltd.)
Renderings of the tower proposed for 15284-15296 Fleetwood Drive in Surrey. (Flat Architecture, 1098261 BC Ltd.)

Goldberg Group 
10-storey apartment building currently occupying 525 Eglinton Avenue East/WND Associates
Rendering of 525 Eglinton Avenue East/Wallman Architects
The Mayfair West site and its surrounding context. (Grosvenor, Arcadis, Hariri Pontarini Architects)
Renderings of Mayfair West. (Grosvenor, Arcadis, Hariri Pontarini Architects)
