In this episode of What On EARTH Can We Do?, host Bri chats with Pam Goertzen, Executive Director of the Smart Sustainable Resilient Infrastructure Association (SSRIA), about the critical role of sustainable building practices in Alberta's path to a low-carbon future. With Alberta’s rapid population growth fueling demand for new buildings, Pam discusses how the construction industry can innovate to meet the challenge of building fast, affordable, and low-carbon homes without compromising sustainability. They also explore the economics of green building, the importance of operational efficiency, and the potential for groundbreaking materials like recycled plastic to reshape the way we build.

Join us for an insightful discussion on how Alberta can lead the way in building sustainable, resilient communities while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Key Topics:

• Alberta's population growth and the demand for new buildings
• The environmental impact of the building sector and green building initiatives
• Challenges and opportunities in sustainable building practices
• Economic considerations for developers and homeowners
• Innovative materials and design strategies to reduce carbon emissions
• The long-term benefits of energy-efficient homes for both the environment and occupants

Guest:

• Pam Goertzen – Executive Director of the Smart Sustainable Resilient Infrastructure Association (SSRIA)

Resources Mentioned:

• Smart Sustainable Resilient Infrastructure Association (SSRIA)
• Canada Green Building Council
• Ecoplast Solutions

• Alberta's population growth
• Canada's population growth
• Greenhouse gas emissions from buildings

The What On EARTH Can We Do Podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation, a registered charity with the unique mission of accelerating environmental excellence by identifying and celebrating Alberta’s visionary leaders and by sharing best practices through the power of compelling educational narratives.

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Thank You to Our Sponsors: A big thank you to our sponsors who make this podcast possible: Capital Power, Government of Alberta, the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta, Pathways Alliance, City of Edmonton, and City of Calgary.