Wednesday, February 11
My Cart9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Passive House Without the Price Tag – Lessons From Timbre & Harmony
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core
Location: Level 2: Rooms 218/219
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
Building Type: Residential: Multi-Unit
Partners: ZEIC
Learn about a six-storey non-market housing project in Vancouver that proves how Passive House performance can be achieved at costs comparable to code-minimum construction. Through concise technical presentations, speakers will unpack the strategies that made it possible: efficient massing, properly sized and zoned mechanical systems, and more. These presentations will be followed by a discussion about the administrative and project management processes that made these technical and cost-saving solutions possible. Attendees will gain candid insights about the frank, and at times tough, collaborative pre-construction work that laid the groundwork for successfully balancing cost and performance. This session will offer valuable lessons for both the non-market and market housing sectors on how to help make high-performance housing not the exception, but the standard.
Speakers
Natalie Douglas ZEBx Program Manager, Zero Emissions Innovation Centre
Natalie Douglas is the Program Manager of the Zero Emissions Building Exchange (ZEBx). In this role, Natalie acts as the first point of contact for those interested in learning more about ZEIC’s Building Decarbonization team. She leads the coordination of capacity-building initiatives across ZEIC’s building decarbonization team and thus helps ensure synergies between specialist areas are identified and elevated. With extensive engagement, facilitation, and presentation experience, Natalie is often called upon to host discussions, nurture connections with the various players crucial to successfully accelerating building decarbonization in BC, and present on the various initiatives of ZEIC’s Building Decarbonization Team.
Adam James Principal, Architect, Ryder Architecture
Adam is a Principal of Ryder Architecture in Vancouver, where he leads projects with a strong focus on energy efficiency and high-performance design. His residential experience spans a wide range of housing typologies, including student housing, affordable and supportive housing, and complex care, giving him a deep understanding of how to design residences that balance well-being, functionality, and long-term durability. Adam has delivered certified projects across British Columbia, including the award-winning, LEED-certified tə šxʷhəleləm̓s tə k̓ʷaƛ̓kʷəʔaʔɬ (The Houses of the Ones Belonging to the Saltwater) student residence at the University of British Columbia and the Timbre and Harmony non-market housing projects. Through this work, he continues to set new benchmarks for comfort, livability, and operational efficiency. Adam is currently working on UBC’s Lower Mall Precinct Phase 1 Student Housing Development.
Shaun St-Amour Retrofit (Revive) Manager, ETRO Construction
Shaun brings a unique combination of expertise, leadership, and passion for high-performance buildings. With extensive knowledge of high-performance building standards and hands-on experience with sustainable materials and methods, he bridges the gap between design intent and construction execution. Beyond ETRO, Shaun contributes to the Passive House Accelerator, organizes Zero Carbon Building Tours with ZEBx, and hosts building science meet-ups. His expertise plays a key role in driving decarbonization, resiliency, and efficiency in both new and existing buildings.
Zina Berrada Intern Architect AIBC, Ryder Architecture
Zina Berrada is an AIBC intern architect and an environmental design specialist who holds a degree in Sustainable Environmental Design from the Architectural Association School in London and a Master of Architecture from Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation. She has worked as a sustainability consultant on major Part 3 groundbreaking Passive House and Net Zero Building projects in the lower mainland, collaborating with multiple municipalities on community centers and institutional buildings. Zina has presented and published several articles and papers on subjects related to passive design strategies and the social impact of construction materials.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Evaluating Façade Renewal: Technical Decision-Making for Façade Retrofits
ConEd Credits: 1 BOMI CPD; AIBC 1 Core
Location: Level 2: Room 220
- Architecture
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
- Building Management & Optimizing Building Performance and Net Asset Value
Building Type: Commercial, Institutional
Façade renewal is more than a technical upgrade – it’s a strategic decision that can redefine a building’s performance, longevity, and identity. This presentation will explore how to assess whether a façade retrofit is warranted and how to determine the most appropriate intervention – ranging from targeted glazing replacement to full system over-cladding or complete façade replacement. Using 609 Granville as a case study, the speakers will examine the architectural and engineering challenges that shaped the final design, including mock-up testing, deteriorated back-pans, and the integration of lighting to dramatically transform the building’s presence. Attendees will gain insight into the technical, logistical, and aesthetic factors that drive façade renewal decisions and how to balance sustainability, cost, and constructability in complex retrofit projects.
Speakers
David Goyne Senior Associate, Perkins&Will
David is a senior architect with broad experience across all phases of design – from programming and documentation to sustainability, technology integration, and construction. Known for his calm, collaborative approach, he builds consensus across diverse teams and delivers thoughtful solutions on projects of all scales. His portfolio spans healthcare, higher education, science and technology, and commercial sectors. David is driven by a belief in architecture’s power to create meaningful change and positively impact communities. His technical expertise and deep understanding of building systems inform both the performance and aesthetics of his work. Through precise detailing and strategic system integration, he consistently helps deliver efficient, high-performing, and beautifully executed buildings.
Leonard Pianalto Managing Principal, Read Jones Christoffersen Ltd.
Leonard’s experience as an engineering consultant and the specialty manufacturing industry spans over 25 years. He is technically minded, client-focused and results oriented. Leonard oversees a diverse team of engineers and technologists to deliver a wide array of services including building enclosure design, energy modelling, heritage preservation, structural restoration, condition assessments, demolition planning, seismic upgrading, façade engineering and specialty structural engineering. In his technical practice, Leonard focuses on custom façades and building maintenance solutions and is an industry leader in these areas. He routinely presents best practices, emerging technologies and current standards at conferences across Canada.
- Regular
- $85
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Navigating Canada’s Carbon Regulations With Confidence
ConEd Credits: 1 BOMI CPD; AIBC 1 Core; BC Housing 1 CPD (Construction management and supervision)
Location: Level 2: Room 221
- Architecture
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
As Canada accelerates toward low-carbon buildings, regulations are reshaping design, permitting, and construction. Operational and embodied carbon are shifting from aspirational to mandatory, with cities and provinces introducing performance thresholds, carbon limits, and reporting requirements. This session explores key regulatory updates and presents a next-generation analysis approach using cloud computing to assess thousands of design scenarios in seconds. It enables early decision-making on envelope, structure, and MEP systems while optimizing for cost, carbon, and energy. Attendees will learn to align with new carbon regulations, identify gaps in traditional workflows, and apply the integrated approach for early-stage scenario analysis. Benefits include faster permitting, cost-effective compliance, and smarter client engagement. This session is ideal for architects, engineers, sustainability leaders, and developers.
Speakers
Ali Nazari Partner, National Growth & Strategy, CIMA+
Ali Nazari, P.Eng., MASc, BEMP is Executive Director of National Growth and Strategy for Buildings at CIMA+, leading strategic initiatives to drive innovation, growth, and high-performance outcomes across Canada. With over 20 years of leadership and entrepreneurial experience, he is recognized for advancing integrated design and sustainability through landmark projects like Canada’s first commercial Living Building Challenge and Vancouver’s first LEED Platinum-certified office. His work spans commercial, institutional, civic, healthcare, and transportation sectors. A committed mentor and thought leader, Ali has chaired the BC Chapter of the Canada Green Building Council, spoken at national and international forums, and contributes to graduate education as an Adjunct Professor at UBC. He holds a Master of Applied Science in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Business from UBC, and has completed executive programs at Stanford and Columbia Business Schools.
Navid Hossaini National Director of Sustainable Development, CIMA+
Navid is a Professional Engineer in BC with over 15 years of experience in sustainability consulting and decarbonization of the built environment. As Director of Sustainable Development at CIMA+, he leads a team focused on advancing energy efficiency, low-carbon design, and green building certifications. He has managed award-winning projects achieving LEED Gold, LEED Platinum, and Zero Carbon Building Standards. Navid teaches LEED and Zero Carbon courses for the Canada Green Building Council and has lectured at UBC. His expertise blends advanced engineering with environmental stewardship. He earned a Ph.D. from UBC specializing in high-performance and net-zero carbon buildings and has presented at national and international events.
- Regular
- $85
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Cooling the Rental Sector: Protecting Tenants and Buildings From Overheating
ConEd Credits: 1 BOMI CPD
Location: Level 2: Rooms 218/219
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
Building Type: Residential: Multi-Unit
Partners: ZEIC
Aging rental buildings, limited electrical infrastructure, and vulnerable tenant populations are creating new health and operational risks for rental housing providers. This session explores how owners can integrate cooling solutions into capital renewal and retrofit plans to protect both tenants and building assets. Featuring perspectives from a rental housing provider, a building engineer, and a public health authority, the discussion will examine the impacts of overheating on health and building performance while highlighting practical pathways to add cooling through heat pumps, envelope upgrades, and electrical improvements – all within an integrated asset management and decarbonization strategy.
Speakers
Ian Cullis VP Sustainability, LandlordBC
Ian Cullis is the Vice-President of Sustainability at LandlordBC, where he leads energy-efficiency and decarbonization initiatives for the rental housing sector. With a background in physical geography, wood science, and real estate development, he brings a strong mix of environmental expertise and financial strategy to his work. Ian is passionate about helping landlords save on operating costs, reduce emissions, and navigate government incentives for sustainable retrofits.
Michael Schwandt Medical Health Officer, Vancouver Coastal Health
Dr. Michael Schwandt is a Medical Health Officer with Vancouver Coastal Health and a Clinical Associate Professor in the UBC School of Population and Public Health. He provides public health leadership in areas including environmental health, climate change resilience, and emergency preparedness. Dr. Schwandt works with health system partners, researchers, government, and non-governmental organizations to protect and promote health at the population level, with attention to equity and the root causes of illness and wellness.
Peter Sundberg General Manager, FRESCo Building Efficiency
Peter Sundberg is the General Manager of FRESCo Building Efficiency, where he brings over 20 years of experience designing and delivering energy efficiency and clean energy programs across North America, Asia, and Latin America. He has deep expertise working with single-family, multi-unit residential, small commercial, and affordable housing buildings – focusing on program design, assessment, training, research, and outreach. Prior to FRESCo, Peter led City Green Solutions, a social enterprise for energy-efficiency services, and has a background in business management, partnerships, and strategic innovation.
Ryan McNamara Senior Manager, Energy & Carbon, Wesgroup Properties
Ryan is a Professional Engineer and Certified Energy Manager who specializes in building energy and sustainability at Wesgroup Properties. By applying his background of 10+ years in building science, mechanical design, energy modelling, and building certifications, he supports the energy and sustainability initiatives of both standing investments and new development projects. This includes everything from leading specific energy efficiency and emission reduction projects to the creation of corporate policies and strategies, all in an effort to move Wesgroup forward on its path to Net Zero.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Lessons Learned: Climate Resilience Training for Building Sector Professionals
ConEd Credits: 1 BOMI CPD; AIBC 1 Core; BC Housing 1 CPD (Construction management and supervision)
Location: Level 2: Rooms 218/219
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
Building Type: Commercial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
Partners: EGBC
With support from Natural Resources Canada, Engineers and Geoscientists BC and the Climate Risk Institute launched the Climate Resilience Training Program for Building Sector Professionals to help integrate climate risk into planning and design for Part 3 buildings. After a pilot and two full sessions, this presentation shares lessons learned from delivering the program. Topics include why prescriptive solutions fall short, how cognitive biases influence decision-making, and the challenge of interpreting climate science before designing solutions. The session will explore what worked, what didn’t, and what this means for future training and practice. Attendees will gain strategies for embedding climate resilience in projects and understand implications for codes, standards, and professional practice.
Speakers
Harshan Radhakrishnan Manager, Climate Change and Sustainability Initiatives, Engineers and Geoscientists BC
Harshan is the Acting Manager, Professional Practice Advice Program at Engineers and Geoscientists BC (EGBC), where he leads a team that provides professional practice advice on a wide range of regulatory, ethical, and practice-related inquiries. He has considerable experience in the regulation of the engineering and geoscience professions, professional development, policy development, and sustainability. At EGBC, Harshan has led the development of numerous professional practice guidelines spanning topic areas such as built environment, natural hazards, and climate resilience across various engineering and geoscience disciplines.
Robert LePage Founding Principal, Climate Resilience Specialist, Climes Group Engineering Inc.
Robert LePage is the founder of Climes Group Engineering Inc., a firm dedicated to advancing climate-resilient buildings. With a strong background in building science, Rob holds a B.A.Sc. in civil engineering (structural specialization), an M.A.Sc. in building science, and a Ph.D. from the University of Victoria, with research focused on biodeterioration of wood. Rob has experience spanning consulting, research, and policy, including a role as a climate resilience expert with Environment and Climate Change Canada. Passionate about sustainable design, Rob brings expertise in low-impact materials, building durability, and the fundamentals of heat and moisture transfer through enclosures.
Paul Cobb Lead, Training, Climate Risk Institute│Institut des risques climatiques
Paul is a Manager of Training Services with the Climate Risk Institute. An engineer by training, he has dedicated his career to finding and implementing climate change solutions. Paul’s work spans twenty years in the fields of climate change mitigation and adaptation – working with everyone from rural communities to provincial and territorial governments – helping identify and implement climate solutions. He is currently coordinating CRI’s work with multiple partners and experts to develop and deliver professional development programs for Engineers, Planners and other professionals, including the Infrastructure Resilience Professional credential. Paul holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He lives and works and is raising his kids in beautiful Northern Ontario, where he is close to ski trails and canoeing.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Clean and Affordable Design Templates for High Density Housing
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core; BC Housing 1 CPD (Construction management and supervision)
Location: Level 2: Room 217
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
Building Type: Residential: Multi-Unit
The dual task of building affordable and low-emissions housing has emerged as the most pressing challenge for Canada’s building sector. How do we design and build low-carbon, electrified housing without breaking the bank on either construction costs or utility bills? In many BC municipalities, it is already required for new large residential construction to be virtually zero-emissions. As such, there are a few real-world design templates that have emerged as practical, affordable, and clean.
In this presentation, the most common high-density residential archetype, a mid-rise wood-framed design, will be presented using whole-building energy simulation to demonstrate balanced, practical solutions. The investigation will provide insight into the optimal design depending on climate and performance requirements (Energy Step / Emission Level) as it relates to building envelope and mechanical systems for ventilation, hot water, heating, and cooling.
Speakers
Brandon Wilbur Building Performance Project Engineer, Read Jones Christoffersen Ltd.
Having worked as a commercial building energy consultant since 2018, Brandon’s wealth of experience includes developing energy models for a wide range of building types, such as residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional buildings, as well as research experience performing whole-building design optimization for least-cost zero-carbon housing. This experience, combined with his studies in civil and mechanical engineering, provides him with a well-rounded technical background and a deep understanding of the technologies and designs necessary to achieve affordable low-carbon buildings.
- Regular
- $85
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
The Hidden Liability Lurking in Vancouver’s Office and Retail Towers
Location: Tradeshow Floor: Property Management Learning Lab (Booth 242)
- Architecture
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
Building Type: Commercial, Mixed-Use
Carbon penalties are an iceberg that will sink building operational costs by 2030. In this presentation attendees will hear about a typical 20,000 m² mixed-use tower and learn how Vancouver’s $350/ton fee flips the script from a “small fine” to a “new mortgage” in under a decade. Attendees will see a retrofit ROI calculator, explore financing options, and learn about cost reduction methods that may mitigate risks.
Learning objectives:
- Quantify the difference between “pay the tax” and “electrify now” using live Vancouver data
- Review the 2026 and 2040 GHGi caps, theoretical carbon-tax escalators, and how they affect operating budgets
- Explore benchmark buildings against peers and identify no-regrets measures that beat 25 kg CO₂e/m²
- Explore incentive options from CleanBC tax credits to ESG-linked loans that turn penalties into debt service
Pre-registration for this session is required. Admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Speakers
Dayne Perry Senior Manager, Associate, HH Angus
As an Associate and Senior Manager, Dayne carries responsibilities in both management and design. With over a decade of experience, he strategically oversees all project phases, ensuring a holistic and efficient approach. Serving as a mentor to the team, Dayne fosters innovation and collaboration while actively engaging in hands-on project implementation, injecting practical insights and sustainable design concepts.
- Free
Property Management Learning Lab Presented by
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Retrofitting Hot Water in MURBs: Right-Sizing Best Practices
ConEd Credits: 1 BOMI CPD
Location: Level 2: Rooms 218/219
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
Building Type: Residential: Multi-Unit
Partners: ZEIC
Domestic hot water (DHW) retrofits in multi-family buildings present a great opportunity to decarbonize an energy-intensive system with little to no tenant impact. This session compares traditional hot water sizing with modern, data-driven approaches using metering, heat pumps, storage, and demand response. Two retrofit case studies will be shared: one designed and one completed. The first used a heat pump–specific sizing tool (Ecosizer) to right-size equipment, cutting capital costs by 70% and reducing total building GHG intensity by 44%. The second features one of BC’s first CO₂ heat pump droplet systems in a 39-unit 1980s building, where added storage and smart controls enable load shifting for grid and carbon benefits. Attendees will gain practical insights into metering, right-sizing, and design best practices for cost-effective DHW electrification at scale.
Speakers
Mariko Michasiw B2E Program Manager, Zero Emissions Innovation Centre
Mariko Michasiw is a green buildings professional who manages B2E, Canada’s first building electrification coalition – a program of the Zero Emissions Innovation Centre. She works closely with the coalition’s members to achieve B2E’s mission to reduce BC’s building sector climate impacts and reliance on fossil fuels through electrification. As a Certified Energy Manager, Mariko has over a decade of experience planning and implementing energy-efficiency and decarbonization projects. Leading B2E, she has developed a keen understanding of the real-life challenges and solutions related to commercial and residential building electrification.
Stuart Hood Design Director, Enersolv
Stuart is Design Director at Enersolv. Stuart has 30 years of experience in the design of high-performance buildings. He is an expert in designing large, complex passive house buildings and has been at the forefront of the growth of the standard in British Columbia.
Harriet Lilley Associate, Introba
Harriet is an Associate at Introba and brings over twelve years of engineering design consulting experience to Introba’s Climate team. Harriet has extensive experience supporting organizations in decarbonizing their portfolios, using quantitative analysis to inform strategic decision-making.
Leo Glaser Director of Net Zero & Planet Impact, Third Space Properties
Leo Glaser is the Director of Net Zero & Planet Impact at Third Space Properties Inc., where he leads the development and execution of the company’s net zero transition plan, climate action plan, and resource conservation plan. With over a decade of expertise in building energy efficiency and commercial real estate portfolio decarbonization, Leo has spearheaded numerous building electrification, energy conservation, and innovative technology pilot projects across diverse asset classes.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Solving Deep Energy Retrofits: From Concept to Construction
ConEd Credits: 1 BOMI CPD; BC Housing 1 CPD (Construction technology)
Location: Level 2: Room 221
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
- Housing Planning, Development & Supply
- Housing Solutions
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
Housing unaffordability and the financial pressures facing commercial building owners remain pressing challenges, compounded by the rising costs of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and upgrading aging buildings to meet cooling needs. This session explores how deep energy retrofits can be delivered affordably by building the right team and leveraging strategic partners. The presenters will share their journey supporting Brightside Community Homes Foundation’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2035, including lessons from the Moreland Kennedy project. The speakers will then build on these concepts by presenting a new retrofit advisory solution and financing offers to extend similar opportunities to commercial buildings. Attendees will gain insights into the sustainability business case, financial modeling, strategic planning, derisking technical solutions, and construction practices for decarbonizing occupied buildings. Designed for building owners, policymakers, engineers, and sustainability professionals at an intermediate level, this session bridges building decarbonization, retrofit financing, business case development, and practical retrofit delivery.
Speakers
Steve Fetterly Associate, Impact Engineering
Steve is an experienced Mechanical Engineer and Project Manager. He is strongly motivated to decrease GHG emissions with innovative mechanical design based on proven engineering principles. Steve’s project focus is in the institutional (education) and residential sectors. He works to deliver real energy and carbon savings results by identifying and implementing the most efficient mechanical systems, while considering the needs of diverse stakeholder groups. He is experienced in providing strategic planning, performing studies, and designing solutions.
Paul Reynolds Director of Projects, Affine Climate Solutions
Paul is the co-founder of Affine Climate Solutions and founder of Fulcrum Projects, a Vancouver-based Project Management firm. Paul works to bridge the gap between climate-aligned building transformation and sustainable real estate finance. He is a highly motivated and energetic systems thinker who specializes in overseeing complex projects in both the public and private sector. With over 20 years’ experience, he has a proven ability to collaborate effectively with clients, to set up a strong foundation through structured planning, and to deliver projects on-time and on-budget. Paul’s clientele and partners are broad, ranging from affordable housing providers to financial institutions – from development corporations and SMEs to First Nations communities.
Jamie Mowat Regional Director, Strategy Implementation, BDC
A banker for 20+ years, Jamie has spent the past 15 years at BDC in business development, credit risk management, and most recently as Regional Director of Strategy Implementation for the B.C. & North region. As a development bank, BDC is the only Canadian financial institution dedicated exclusively to entrepreneurs, serving over 100,000 clients and with $57B committed to Canadian small and medium-sized businesses.
- Regular
- $85
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Architecture Keynote – Innovations in Adaptive Reuse
Location: Tradeshow Floor: BUILDEX Main Stage (Booth 843)
- Architecture
- Engineering
- Interior Design
- Project Planning, Procurement, Management & Delivery
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
- Design Concepts, Health & Wellness
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
Adaptive reuse stands as a multi-faceted solution to Vancouver’s urban challenges. The practice of re-using existing structures offers opportunities to eliminate waste, enhance energy efficiency, and reduce embodied carbon in existing structures. Beyond ecological benefits, this practice has demonstrated significant impact on social, cultural, and economic aspects. This year’s architecture keynote will present strategies for adaptive reuse in Vancouver, addressing the balance between preserving architectural heritage and meeting evolving contemporary needs.
Pre-registration for this session is required. Admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Speakers
Mona Lemoine Associate, Senior Sustainability Consultant, DIALOG
Mona is a licensed architect with more than twenty-three years of experience in the built environment. Her work addresses the urgencies of climate change by offering design solutions that weave together resilience, equity, health, and biodiversity considerations. As part of these efforts, Mona remains focused on designing and building projects that are enabled to draw down carbon emissions through material performance, circular economy, and regenerative design and development. In combining big-picture systems thinking with attention to detail, Mona works together with clients to craft a carbon impact vision, fit with both ambitious and achievable goals that support their ideal outcomes for the project. Mona is the Chair of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) Committee on Regenerative Environments (CORE), and Co-Chair of the RAIC Climate Action Engagement and Enablement Plan (CAEEP) steering committee.
Ryan Bragg Principal, Corporate and Commercial, Vancouver, Perkins&Will
Adventurous and curious, Ryan jumped at the opportunity to leave northern Alberta and live with relatives in Europe for several months when he was 14. That journey began a life-long love of travel and an appetite for experiencing different cultures—traits that Ryan believes to be the foundation of his context-first design approach. When responding to the contextual and external influences of a project, Ryan looks for the clear simple design solutions first. Through extensive project experience, he has adopted an objective and malleable approach to design. He likens design to another of his passions, artisanal bread baking: all the right ingredients can be combined in the correct proportions, but a successful outcome requires adjusting and responding to the specific environmental conditions.
Kai Hotson Principal, Architect, SvN Architects + Planners
With nearly 20 years of professional experience working in multiple scales of architectural practice in New York and Toronto, Kai joined SvN in 2024, after having led Hotson Architecture since 2013. Kai is committed to creating high-quality buildings and environments for living and learning. Over the course of his career, he has been involved in a leading role on a variety of projects, ranging from residential housing, community and university buildings, and commercial interiors to master planning and competitions. Kai’s work has been recognized for design innovation through awards and publications, the most recent of which include the Architizer A+ Award and Shaw Contract Design Award for the University of British Columbia tə šxʷhəleləm
Duncan Bates Senior Associate, Diamond Schmitt Architects
Duncan Bates has a broad range of design experience and has made significant contributions as a design leader since joining the firm in 2005. Projects include the envelope of the Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning at Sickkids Hospital and the PwC-YMCA Tower at Vaughan Metropolitan Centre. As a resident of Guelph, Duncan is pleased to have led the competition-winning proposal for a new central library and 120-unit condominium building that will occupy the north block of the Baker District Redevelopment, a transformational project in downtown Guelph. As the design and project lead for the Waterworks mixed-use building, Duncan oversaw the construction of the heritage adaptive reuse that incorporates a YMCA, considerable European-influenced retail spaces, and 290 residential units in downtown Toronto. Duncan sits on a Region of Waterloo Design Review Panel and has previously participated as a jury member in the selection of public art for the City of Guelph in addition to being a guest critic at a number of post-secondary design institutions.
Mitchell Hall Partner, KPMB Architects
Mitchell Hall is recognized for his passion and commitment to architecture as a vehicle for improving the human condition. He believes that architects must offer agency – acting in the best interests of people and place – to help make a better world. He challenges existing paradigms to create buildings and spaces that actively promote wellness, cultivate community building, and address the pressing challenges of our time, from climate change to population growth. Joining KPMB in the formative years of the practice, Mitch worked on seminal Governor General award-winning projects such as Woodsworth College and Kitchener City Hall. He has diverse design and leadership experience, directing interdisciplinary teams to deliver large, complex projects in the culture, hospitality, and education sectors. Mitchell is experienced in various sectors, including science, healthcare, culture, and hospitality. As an advocate of architectural excellence, Mitch has navigated complex programs and approvals to successfully realize the ambitions and aspirations of clients, within the constraints of budget and time.
- Free
3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Canada – Italy Green Building Forum 2026
Location: Tradeshow Floor: Innovation & Networking Hub (Booth 201)
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
Building Type: Civil / Infrastructure, Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
A place to connect and learn about what’s new in the green building space. A bilateral hub to connect, network and do business with new clients and suppliers. Brought to you by the Italian Chamber in Canada – West.
Presentation details:
Removing Certification Programs Barriers for Swing Doors Code Compliance
LabTest is working with the Fenestration Industry to improve the process and time to market for product approvals and reporting, which impacts everyone involved: from pre-hangers, component suppliers, installers, architects, regulators, and energy consultants. Join this free to attend event on the Tradeshow Floor: Innovation & Networking Hub (Booth 201) from 3:30pm to 4:30pm on Wednesday, February 11.
Pre-registration for this session is required. Admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
- FREE
Sponsor
Thursday, February 12
My Cart9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Energy-Efficient Hot Water Replacements: Key Insights for Smarter Home Upgrades
Location: Level 2: Rooms 218/219
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
Building Type: Residential: Single-Unit
Partners: ZEIC
Shifting to more efficient water heating is a crucial step toward reducing household carbon emissions. Water heating in homes accounts for approximately 25% of the total household energy usage in BC and contributes typically one-fifth of home GHG emissions. Starting January 2027 in Vancouver, all water heater replacements in detached homes must meet new “highest efficiency” standards, meaning electric, heat pump, or hybrid/dual fuel water heaters. In this session, attendees will hear from Vancouver-based utilities, contractors, and policy makers as they discuss how the industry is preparing for same-day replacements and a clean, energy-efficient future.
Speakers
Zosia Brown Senior Green Building Planner, City of Vancouver
Zosia is a leader with nearly two decades of experience driving sustainable change and environmental policy in organizations across North America and Europe. She currently works at the City of Vancouver, where she advances its climate, resilience, and sustainable-building objectives. Most recently she was VP of Sustainability at Nexii, and prior to that, Head of Resource Conservation at the Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle. Zosia is passionate about green buildings, climate action, and shaping a future in which both people and nature thrive.
Derek Schmidt HVAC/Hydronic/Gas/Geothermal Technician, Schmidt Bros. Mechanical Ltd.
Derek Schmidt represents the third generation at Schmidt Bros. Mechanical Ltd. in Vancouver, where he focuses on designing and installing high-performance HVAC and plumbing systems for over 17 years. With extensive field experience, he’s committed to helping contractors and clients understand modern, energy-efficient technologies like heat pumps.
Todd Backus Chief Operating Officer, TECA
Todd Backus, P.Eng., is the Chief Operating Officer at the Thermal Environmental Comfort Association (TECA) in British Columbia. With over 20 years in the HVAC industry, he began as a Red Seal sheet metal worker and owner of Backus Mechanical, specializing in forced-air system installation and design for custom homes. After earning his Mechanical Engineering degree from BCIT in 2019, Todd worked as a mechanical consultant with Rocky Point Engineering, designing HVAC, plumbing, and fire suppression systems. He obtained his Professional Engineering designation in 2023 and now leads TECA’s operations, combining practical trade expertise with engineering insight to advance industry training and standards.
Ryan Gregory Program Manager, BC Hydro
Ryan Gregory is a Program Manager on BC Hydro’s Market Transformation team, where he helps advance energy efficiency and building performance across British Columbia. A professional engineer and UBC graduate, Ryan brings over 15 years of building science experience, including nine years with RDH Building Science and more than six years with innovative start-ups in B.C. and along the West Coast. He’s passionate about practical, scalable solutions that drive deep energy retrofits and support a more sustainable built environment.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Challenging Convention With Innovative Timber Applications
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core
Location: Level 2: Rooms 208/209
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
- WoodWorks at BUILDEX
Building Type: Commercial, Mixed-Use
Partners: WoodWorks
This dynamic session explores cutting-edge applications of mass timber in Canadian construction through three compelling case studies that showcase how timber is revolutionizing the building industry. Attendees will discover Spearhead’s visionary approach to next-generation manufacturing through their innovative glulam facility in British Columbia. This groundbreaking project challenges conventional thinking and reimagines timber production processes, setting new standards for what’s possible in wood manufacturing. The session will also feature Intelligent City’s remarkable achievement—Canada’s first tall timber Passive House facade. This case study reveals how mass timber building envelopes can deliver exceptional environmental performance while meeting the most demanding energy efficiency standards, creating sustainable structures that perform as beautifully as they look. Finally, the session will present ETRO’s 837 Beatty project, where heritage preservation meets modern timber innovation. This thoughtful integration creates a harmonious dialogue between historical architecture and forward-thinking construction methodologies, demonstrating timber’s versatility across different building contexts.
Speakers
Shaun St-Amour Retrofit (Revive) Manager, ETRO Construction
Shaun brings a unique combination of expertise, leadership, and passion for high-performance buildings. With extensive knowledge of high-performance building standards and hands-on experience with sustainable materials and methods, he bridges the gap between design intent and construction execution. Beyond ETRO, Shaun contributes to the Passive House Accelerator, organizes Zero Carbon Building Tours with ZEBx, and hosts building science meet-ups. His expertise plays a key role in driving decarbonization, resiliency, and efficiency in both new and existing buildings.
Josh Hall Partner, Director of Business Development, Spearhead
Josh is a Partner and Director of Business Development at Spearhead, where he helps shape the company’s vision and strategic direction. With over fifteen years of experience spanning architecture, digital fabrication, and commercial construction, his knowledge of design, process, and project delivery plays a key role in guiding Spearhead’s continued growth and evolution. Josh holds a Master of Architecture from the University of British Columbia and a Bachelor of Architectural Science from the British Columbia Institute of Technology.
Shawn Keyes VP, Strategic Growth & Business Development, Intelligent City
Shawn is a structural engineer and commercial executive with more than a decade of experience leading innovation in mass timber and industrialized construction. As Vice President of Strategic Growth at Intelligent City, he leads commercialization, market strategy, and partnerships to scale the company’s prefabricated housing systems. Previously, Shawn served as Executive Director of WoodWorks BC, where he led a strategic transformation that strengthened partnerships, technical leadership, and influence across the development, AEC, and policy sectors. Before that, he spent over six years at Fast + Epp, developing deep expertise in mass timber and hybrid structural systems. Shawn’s teams have supported more than 150 mass timber projects across Canada, and he has served on advisory councils for BC Housing, BCIT, and the BC Office of Mass Timber Implementation. He holds an MBA from UBC Sauder, a Master of Engineering from Carleton University, and is a licensed Professional Engineer in BC and Ontario.
- Regular
- $85
Session Sponsor
Presenting Partner
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
How the Zero Carbon Step Code Is Reshaping Design Decisions in BC
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core
Location: Level 2: Room 220
- Architecture
- Engineering
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
Building Type: Residential: Multi-Unit
As BC advances its Energy Step Code and Zero Carbon Step Code implementation, owners and designers face a critical question: Does maximizing thermal performance deliver the lowest whole-building carbon? UBC research on mid-rise and high-rise archetypes explored hundreds of envelope scenarios to weigh energy use, operational emissions, embodied carbon, and cost. Results show that with a carbon-intensive heat source, efficiency gains dominate, but under low-carbon energy, the embodied carbon from high-performing envelopes can outweigh benefits. With higher Zero Carbon Step Code adoption, pushing to the top Energy Step Code tiers may not align with whole-building carbon goals. This session raises awareness of potential metric conflicts, why Thermal Energy Demand Intensity (TEDI) alone is insufficient, and how holistic thinking can better guide policy and practice. Attendees will learn how to navigate blind spots, avoid unnecessary costs, and align design with meaningful carbon reductions.
Speakers
Martina Soderlund Principal, Building Performance Specialist, reLoad Sustainable Design Inc.
Martina is the Principal and Founder of reLoad, with over 21 years of international experience in technical sustainability and building performance across Sweden, Canada, and the U.S., including 15+ years in the BC market. With a background bridging architecture and engineering, she advises on energy and carbon goals for diverse building types, providing strategic design solutions that integrate energy modeling, whole-building LCA, life-cycle costing, and climate resilience planning. Martina is also a recognized expert advisor on BC provincial and federal energy efficiency and carbon reporting requirements and their design implications. Passionate about advancing low-carbon, resilient buildings, Martina works closely with project teams to set ambitious performance goals, shape design strategies, and evaluate solutions that balance innovation, practicality, and sustainability.
Hugh Nolan Building Energy, Carbon Analyst, reLoad Sustainable Design Inc.
Hugh is a Building Energy and Carbon Analyst with a background in both architecture and engineering. He specialises in uncovering holistic, data-driven solutions that balance energy performance, carbon reduction, and cost. His expertise lies in using parametric modelling to explore complex design trade-offs, enabling teams to make informed decisions that align with project climate and energy goals. With experience in diverse building typologies, Hugh is passionate about helping owners, designers, and policymakers navigate the evolving landscape of energy and carbon standards. His work emphasises the importance of whole-building thinking-integrating operational emissions, embodied carbon, and energy efficiency -to avoid blind spots and deliver meaningful, resilient outcomes. At the intersection of design and analytics, Hugh brings clarity to complex challenges and is dedicated to advancing low-carbon, future-ready buildings.
Ralph Wells Community Climate and Energy Manager, University of British Columbia
As Community Climate and Energy Manager for the University of British Columbia, Ralph is responsible for reducing GHG emissions and energy consumption, and addressing climate resiliency in the residential neighbourhoods on the UBC Vancouver campus. Ralph has gained a wide range of sustainability experience over a broad career spanning nearly 3 decades, and holds a UBC Master of Clean Energy Engineering and a Master of Resource and Environmental Management from SFU.
Sarah Christianson Vice President Development, Polygon Homes Ltd.
Sarah Christianson is a registered architect and a Vice President of Development at Polygon Homes. She has worked on a wide range of mixed-use and multi-family residential projects across North America, contributing to all phases of design and project delivery. Her experience includes complex developments where thoughtful planning, technical rigor, and collaboration are essential to creating high-quality, livable communities. At Polygon Homes, Sarah draws on her architectural training and professional experience to lead and support projects that prioritize design excellence, sustainability, and long-term value.
- Regular
- $85
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
From Retrofit to New Build: Passive House Challenges, Solutions, and Code Comparisons
ConEd Credits: 1 BOMI CPD; AIBC 1 Core
Location: Level 2: Room 221
- Architecture
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
Building Type: Institutional
This session presents two real-world projects on the path to Passive House certification – a deep retrofit of a heritage daycare targeting EnerPHit, and a new construction of a community centre aiming for Passive House. The retrofit case highlights the complexities of upgrading a historic building, from mechanical system constraints to certification coordination. The new build focuses on energy savings, thermal comfort, and the integration of enclosure and mechanical system modeling. Beyond project-specific insights, the session compares the Passive House approach in the new construction project to a standard code-compliant design, emphasizing differences in energy performance, comfort, and modeling methodology. Attendees will gain practical knowledge on overcoming technical and regulatory challenges while understanding the broader impact of Passive House versus baseline code.
Speakers
Parvin Asadi Building Performance Project Engineer, Read Jones Christoffersen Ltd.
Parvin Asadi, P.Eng., is a Building Performance Project Engineer at RJC Engineers, where she focuses on energy modeling and performance analysis for both new construction and retrofit projects. She specializes in integrating mechanical systems and building enclosures to enhance energy efficiency, thermal comfort, and overall building performance. With a diverse portfolio spanning residential, commercial, and institutional sectors, Parvin brings extensive expertise in various compliance pathways and sustainability standards, including Passive House and EnerPHit. She holds a master’s degree in High Performance Buildings from UBC and is passionate about bridging the gap between design intent and performance outcomes through collaboration, innovation, and data-driven modeling. In addition to her project work, she actively mentors junior engineers and contributes to advancing best practices in the building industry.
- Regular
- $85
Session Sponsor
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Supporting Owners and Managers Through the Low-Carbon Transition
Location: Level 2: Room 207
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
- Building Management & Optimizing Building Performance and Net Asset Value
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use
Partners: VRCA
As the commercial real estate sector accelerates toward a low-carbon future, owners and managers are seeking more than just products and services. They are looking for trusted partners who can help them navigate the complexities of building performance, carbon reduction, and operational transformation. This shift creates a critical opportunity for energy professionals to move beyond a transactional, sales-focused approach and adopt an advisory mindset rooted in collaboration, trust, and long-term value creation.
This session will explore how energy service providers can play a pivotal role in supporting building owners and managers on their decarbonization journey. From identifying practical retrofit pathways and optimizing performance to aligning sustainability goals with financial and operational realities, energy professionals will gain insight into how they can effectively engage with clients, cultivate enduring relationships, and drive both business growth and positive environmental outcomes. By reframing their role from vendor to advisor, energy professionals can become indispensable partners in advancing low-carbon building operations and shaping a more sustainable commercial real estate landscape.
Speakers
Bala Gnanam Vice-President, Sustainability, Advocacy and Stakeholder Relations, BOMA Canada
Bala Gnanam serves as Vice President of Sustainability, Advocacy & Stakeholder Relations at the Building Owners and Managers Association of Canada (BOMA Canada). With over two decades of expertise spanning energy, commercial real estate, and manufacturing, Bala is a recognized leader in advancing sustainability and climate action through improved building performance. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Industrial Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and is a Certified Energy Manager (CEM) and Certified Demand Side Manager (CDSM) through the Association of Energy Engineers. At BOMA Canada, Bala spearheads advocacy efforts, collaborating with all levels of government, local BOMA associations, and industry stakeholders to shape policies and programs that impact Canada’s commercial real estate sector. He also oversees the creation of educational resources, thought leadership content, and initiatives that promote energy efficiency, sustainability, and regulatory compliance. Notably, he leads the BOMA Enspire Program, a capacity-building initiative funded by Natural Resources Canada under the Deep Retrofit Accelerator Initiative (DRAI).
Julianne Pickrell-Barr Associate, Sustainability Team Leader, Prism Engineering
Julianne is a senior climate action specialist with a passion for helping organizations reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, increase their climate resiliency, and improve their energy management and sustainability practices. Julianne is a Certified Energy Manager and engaging facilitator with over ten years of experience in strategic energy management and decarbonization planning. She is also a graduate of Simon Fraser University’s Master’s degree in Resource Management where she pursued a major in planning and completed a research project focused on zero-emission and alternative-fuel fleet vehicle adoption to enable her to better assist clients in meeting their climate action goals.
Ehsan Haghi Program Manager, Decarb Accelerator, BOMA BC
Ehsan Haghi has an engineering background and currently works as a Program Manager with BOMA BC’s Decarb Accelerator team. In this role, he works with multiple commercial and retail buildings to identify and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve overall building energy efficiency.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Incentives for Lower Operational and Embodied Carbon Houses in Vancouver
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core; BC Housing 1 CPD (Construction management and supervision)
Location: Level 2: Room 217
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
- Housing Solutions
Building Type: Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
Since 2020, the City of Vancouver has supported zero-emission buildings through measures like zoning incentives. For low-rise homes, the zoning incentive offers a 19% floor space exclusion, now extended to 2030 to encourage construction of comfortable, low-cost, and healthy homes while significantly reducing embodied carbon emissions. This session will provide updates to the incentive, including new embodied carbon performance and reporting requirements starting in 2026. Builders for Climate Action will share insights from the Near Zero Stream 2 (NZ2) program, highlighting practical, cost-effective strategies to reduce embodied carbon in low-rise homes and associated costs.
Speakers
Zahra Teshnizi Senior Planner, Embodied Carbon, City of Vancouver
Zahra is a Senior Planner at the City of Vancouver and the implementation lead for Big Move 5 of the City’s Climate Emergency Action Plan, which aims to reduce embodied carbon emissions from construction materials and practices in new buildings by 40% by 2030. She serves on several advisory and technical committees, including the Task Group on Embodied Greenhouse Gas Emissions under the National Model Code Committee on Climate Change Mitigation and the CaGBC Embodied Carbon Technical Advisory Group. Zahra holds a Master’s in Advanced Studies in Architecture from UBC and has over a decade of experience in low-carbon building practices.
Sailen Black Senior Green Building Planner, City of Vancouver
Sailen Black, Architect AIBC, works for the City of Vancouver as a Senior Green Building Planner. His work includes changes to the zoning and development process to reduce operational and embodied emissions from buildings, including Net Zero and Passive House projects. He previously worked in the Urban Design division at the City of Vancouver as a development planner.
Mélanie Trottier Embodied Carbon Analyst, BEAM Trainer, Builders for Climate Action
Mélanie joined BfCA in the summer of 2021, with an urge to nourish her inner flame with something meaningful to act on climate change. She has inputted the most projects in BEAM among all of us, which was key in finding bugs and helping develop the tool. Mélanie holds a double master’s in Architecture and Urban Design from Université Laval in Québec, and she is a Certified Passive House Designer. As a naturally curious, meticulous and dynamic person, she’s always motivated by new challenges, leading her to help design training programs for BEAM users and adding EPDs in the database.
Bryn Davidson Co-Owner, Lead Designer, Lanefab Design/Build
Bryn Davidson is co-founder and Lead Designer at Lanefab, a Vancouver-based design-build firm crafting custom homes, multiplexes, and infill laneway houses that blend West Coast modernism with climate-friendly passivhaus design principles. Bryn has degrees in Mech. Engineering (from UC Berkeley) and Architecture from UBC. Bryn’s 2014 TEDx talk laid out the firm’s goal of creating projects that go beyond Net-Zero, to have a Net-Positive impact on the climate crisis. In 2010, Lanefab completed the City of Vancouver’s first Laneway House, and the team recently built the first certified Passivhaus (Passive House) in both New Westminster and Burnaby. Bryn’s design team is currently working on several multiplex projects in the City of Vancouver. Lanefab’s approach to green infill housing has been profiled in the New York Times, Forbes, and Dwell and won them numerous awards – including the Arthur Erickson Memorial Award and the Scotiabank EcoLiving Prize.
- Regular
- $85
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Cost-Effective Strategies to Lower Embodied Carbon
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core; BC Housing 1 CPD (Construction management and supervision)
Location: Level 2: Rooms 218/219
- Architecture
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
Building Type: Commercial, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit
Partners: ZEIC
As Canada accelerates its housing build-out, many of the developers and construction companies tasked with making this happen on the ground are not just responding to policy pressures; they’re driving change from within and taking the opportunity to reduce cost and carbon at the same time. Motivated by internal sustainability goals and updated value engineering practices, project teams are proving that it’s possible to lower embodied carbon while keeping projects on budget and on schedule.
This session will explore how project teams are achieving significant carbon reductions through smarter design, material optimization, and integrated delivery. Drawing on insights from project experience in Vancouver and from findings from the Clean Energy Canada’s report Building Toward Low Cost and Carbon, the discussion will highlight real-world examples where embodied emissions were reduced by up to 40% – often at minor or no added cost.
Speakers
Stephanie Dalo CLF BC Program Manager, Zero Emissions Innovation Centre
Stephanie is a licensed Professional Engineer in British Columbia and Ontario and serves as Program Manager of the Carbon Leadership Forum British Columbia (CLF BC), powered by the Zero Emissions Innovation Centre (ZEIC). She began her career as a structural engineer specializing in bridge rehabilitation before pursuing her passion for sustainability through UBC’s Master of Engineering Leadership in Urban Systems. Since then, she has worked on diverse building types—mixed-use, multi-family, commercial, institutional, and office—helping project teams set and achieve sustainability goals. In her role with CLF BC, Stephanie partners with architects, engineers, builders, and developers to produce case studies showcasing practical strategies and measurable results in embodied carbon reduction.
Vincent Delfaud Founder, WAAi Inc.
Since 2002, Vincent Delfaud has worked as a Design Architect and Executive Architect on iconic projects across Europe and North America, with deep involvement in every phase – from concept through contract administration. He has extensive experience with high-rise and complex geometrical structures, contributing to landmark projects such as The Shard and 20 Fenchurch Street (“the Walkie Talkie”) in London, the San Paolo IMI office tower in Torino, the Marseille Vélodrome Stadium and La Marseillaise Tower in France, as well as Google Headquarters in California and The Stack in Vancouver. Following his time leading IPB Group’s in-house Design Studio, Vincent joined BOSA Development, where he continued to advance innovative, performance-driven design. Most recently, he founded WAAI Inc., a design practice focused on integrating architectural excellence with sustainability and constructability.
Audrina Lim Director of Sustainable Construction, Chandos
Audrina is an Australian and Canadian architect with over 20 years of professional experience. Her interest in ethical, sustainable development has empowered her to shift careers into the sustainability realm with Chandos Construction. Audrina’s role as the Director of Sustainable Construction enables her to support Chandos to deliver lower carbon buildings, attain energy targets on buildings, research and develop climate resiliency strategies, and reduce our GHG emissions in operations. Through her experience as an architect and management professional, Audrina brings a multidisciplinary aspect to her role and is excited to be collaborating with industry partners to build a resilient, low-carbon construction sector. Audrina also volunteers with the Smart Sustainable Resilient Infrastructure Association on the Board of Directors (SSRIA).
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
From Forest to Form: Sourcing Local Wood for BC Projects
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core; BC Housing 1 CPD (Construction technology); 1 IDCEC HSW-Sustainability
Location: Level 2: Rooms 208/209
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Homebuilding & Renovation
- Interior Design
- Project Planning, Procurement, Management & Delivery
- Technology, Innovation & Smart Buildings
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
- WoodWorks at BUILDEX
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
Partners: WoodWorks
Wood and mass timber are increasingly being specified for all kinds of buildings and spaces in BC, including mid-rise and taller residential apartments, schools, and healthcare facilities. Does this mean BC will cut down more trees? On this panel, hear BC’s Chief Forester discuss the province’s forest management practices and wood supply. Learn from a recently completed project that effectively sourced local wood materials and discover the tools and resources available to assist in procuring wood products from BC’s forests.
Speakers
Helen Goodland Principal, Head of Research and Innovation, Scius Advisory Inc.
Helen Goodland is an architect registered in the UK and has an MBA from the University of BC. As head of research and innovation for Scius, she brings over 30 years of experience working on transformative solutions for the real estate and construction industries in Canada and around the world. Helen is firmly committed to achieving truly sustainable buildings within the next decade. She is also passionate about advancing leadership opportunities for women in construction technology. To this end, she participates on numerous boards and committees. Currently she serves on the Board of Directors of Building Transformations (formerly CanBIM), the BC Digital Advisory Council, the BCIT Mass Timber Education Advisory Board and the University of Victoria’s Green Civil Engineering Advisory Council. She is also past chair of the UN Sustainable Buildings Initiative’s Materials Technical Committee.
Shane Berg
Shane Berg is an Assistant Deputy Minister, and the Chief Forester, for the Province of BC with the Ministry of Forests. Shane obtained his BSc. in Forestry from the University of Alberta and has more than 35 years of experience working within BC’s Public Service. Shane is a registered professional forester (RPF) and has worked throughout the province, beginning as a silviculture technician in Invermere, a silviculture forester in Grand Forks, a forest planning manager in Squamish, and eventually taking on district manager roles over a span of 14 years with the BC Forest Service in northern BC (Hazelton) and the southern interior (Kamloops). He spent six years working as a regional executive director with the Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation until he returned to FLNR as an executive director and the deputy chief forester in 2017, a role that he held until has appointment as BC’s 18th chief forester in June of 2022. The mantra for the Office of the Chief Forester is “Caring for BC’s Forests”…and Shane’s goal as chief forester is to promote BC as a world leader in sustainable forest management.
Ayme Sharma Associate Principal, ZGF Architects
Ayme leads ZGF Vancouver’s Building and Project Performance Team, drawing on almost 20 years of professional experience in architecture centered on building performance and environmental stewardship. Trained as both an ecologist and an architect, Ayme brings deep expertise in embodied carbon, healthy materials, high-performance envelope design including Passive House and LEED certification. Her current research delves into linking the biogenic value of wood to sustainable forest management practices in BC to understand carbon and ecosystem benefits. Ayme has cultivated an extensive network of wood industry partners that spans the entire supply chain-from First Nations forest stewards to both small- and large-scale product fabricators. Ayme brings expertise in designing one of the first CLT elementary schools in British Columbia that promotes student health and well-being.
Rebecca Holt Senior Director, Sustainability, hcma
Rebecca Holt is an urbanist and passionate advocate for our planet. She spent her career collaborating with design teams, organizations, and researchers on strategies for high-performance buildings, neighborhoods, and cities. She leads hcma’s Impact Team, shaping how we practice, operate, and advocate. A subject matter expert with a foundation in building performance assessment and climate-responsive design, Rebecca brings decades of experience in design guidance. She is a strategist and steward of process dedicated to outcomes that respect the planet and include everyone.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Environmental Product Declarations for Sustainable Interiors
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Non-Core; 1 IDCEC HSW-Sustainability
Location: Level 2: Room 222
- Architecture
- Interior Design
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
Building Type: Commercial, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
As the demand for sustainable interiors continues to grow, designers and architects are expected to balance beauty, functionality, and environmental impacts. This session explores how to integrate Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) into material selection for interiors, from flooring and wall coverings to ceiling materials and furniture. Attendees will learn how to interpret the environmental indicators within EPDs, evaluate trade-offs, and make informed product decisions that align with green building standards. Real-world examples and case studies will demonstrate how EPDs can support climate goals, client expectations, and project transparency across both commercial and residential interiors. In addition, this session will cover the process of developing, verifying, and approving an EPD with a program operator. Whether you’re selecting finishes for a hotel lobby or a healthcare facility, this session will provide practical knowledge to elevate your sustainability practice.
Pre-registration for this session is required. Admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Speakers
Shiva Zargar Founder, Director of Science and LCA, Build Neutral Inc.
Dr. Shiva Zargar is a life cycle assessment (LCA) scientist and expert and the founder of Build Neutral, where she helps businesses navigate complex environmental challenges through data-driven solutions. With over 10 years of experience in LCA and as an accredited EPD verifier, she brings deep technical knowledge and industry insight to her work. She holds a PhD in Sustainable Bioeconomy from the University of British Columbia (UBC), supported by the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship, and combines academic excellence with practical impact across industrial ecology, environmental modelling, and techno-economic analysis. With two master’s degrees, one in biosystem mechanics in the field of renewable energies and another in biology focusing on environmental impact assessment, she is a frequent contributor to conferences and publications. Dr. Zargar is committed to empowering businesses through the lens of life cycle thinking.
- Free
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Watt’s Possible: Avoiding Capacity Upgrades in Multi-Unit Residential Building Retrofits
ConEd Credits: 1 BOMI CPD; AIBC 1 Core
Location: Level 2: Rooms 218/219
- Architecture
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Engineering
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
Building Type: Residential: Multi-Unit
Partners: ZEIC
Join this session for a sneak peek of the new Power Efficient Design Guide for MURB Retrofits, followed by a panel discussion on practical, real-world approaches to electrifying multi-unit residential buildings without triggering costly electrical capacity upgrades. Get up to speed on emerging best practices and be ready to respond to the growing demand for cooling, EV charging, and broader electrification in condos and apartments.
Speakers
Darla Simpson Retrofit Program Manager, Zero Emissions Innovation Centre
Darla has over 20 years of experience working at the intersection of people, energy, and buildings. She began in the K-12 sector, helping school districts save energy through behaviour change and policy, then joined SES Consulting as Director of Sustainability, blending technical expertise with change management to overcome barriers to low-carbon retrofits. In 2022, she became the Retrofit Program Manager at the Zero Emissions Innovation Centre, leading the BC Retrofit Accelerator. Passionate about climate action, she also serves on the Board of Urban Repurpose, a nonprofit focused on reusing and repurposing materials.
Brendan McEwen Managing Consultant, Dunsky Energy + Climate Advisors
Brendan supports utility, government, and private-sector clients in decarbonizing the transportation and building sectors. Over 16 years in climate policy, he has directed an electric mobility and decarbonization practice at an engineering firm, served as sustainability manager for the City of Richmond, BC, been associate director of MIT’s Green Economic Development Initiative, and consulted with leading urban planning firms. He led Richmond’s world-first 100% “EV Ready” parking requirement and helped shape BC’s Zero Carbon Step Code. In 2023, he developed a roadmap for mandatory residential HVAC workforce certifications to support the low-carbon transition.
Jason Rowley Policy Specialist, Market Transformation, BC Hydro
Jason Rowley is a Policy Specialist working within the Market Transformation Team at BC Hydro. Jason Rowley is a seasoned senior leader with 35 years of progressive experience in regulatory strategy, government policy development, and the implementation of codes and standards. His career has centered on advancing safety, compliance, and innovation in complex urban environments, with a strong emphasis on technical oversight and policy influence. Jason comes to BC Hydro after serving the City of Vancouver for 20 years as an electrical inspector, with the last eight years as Chief Electrical Inspector and Electrical Safety Manager for the City of Vancouver.
Jeremy Overton Senior Safety Officer, Electrical, Climate Action and Sustainability, Technical Safety BC
Jeremy Overton is a Senior Safety Officer (Electrical – Climate Action and Sustainability) with Technical Safety BC. He has over nine years of experience as an Electrical Safety Officer, including three years with the City of Vancouver and six years with Technical Safety BC, serving communities in Cranbrook and across Vancouver Island.
Jeremy is actively involved in electrical code development and serves as a technical subcommittee member for CEC Sections 8, 10, 62, and 86. He is also a voting member of the Part 1 Technical Committee for the Canadian Electrical Code. He is the Secretary of the IAEI BC Chapter and Vice President of the IAEI Canadian Section, supporting inspector training, code development, and industry engagement around the province.
He lives in Port Alberni, British Columbia, with his wife and two children.
- Regular
- $85
Presenting Partner
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Tracking Construction Emissions: From Data to Decarbonization
ConEd Credits: AIBC 1 Core
Location: Level 2: Rooms 208/209
- Architecture
- Construction & Trades
- Engineering
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
Building Type: Institutional
As the building industry intensifies its focus on embodied carbon, emissions caused by transportation to and from the site and onsite construction/installation activities (A4 and A5 lifecycle stages) are starting to receive long-overdue attention. Despite their significance, these emissions are often underestimated due to limited data availability, inconsistent tracking methods, and a lack of standardized reporting frameworks. This session will share experience in tracking and measuring these emissions across pilot projects in Canada. The speakers will explore lessons learned in quantifying emissions from material transport, on-site energy use, temporary heating, and construction waste. Key drivers of emissions production will be identified along with the reduction strategies they are exploring moving forward. This session will also discuss the challenges with emissions tracking programs in construction, including engaging subcontractors in data collection and other gaps that can lead to underreporting.
Pre-registration for this session is required. Admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Speakers
Aaron MacLean Manager, Climate and Sustainability, EllisDon
Aaron has been working in the construction industry for over 15 years. He has experience in design-build delivery as well as contract, environmental, and financial management for general contractors in a variety of complex projects with specialized experience in transit infrastructure and civil works. After 15 years with EllisDon’s civil division, he joined EllisDon’s Sustainable Building Solutions (“SBS”) group in 2024. As a Project Manager with the SBS group, Aaron continues to support project success with a new focus on achieving green building certification goals such as LEED, WELL, and zero carbon building standards. His engineering background remains instrumental as he reviews designs for energy efficiency, compliance with green building credits, and established carbon reduction strategies. In alignment with EllisDon’s goal to achieve net zero carbon by 2050, he also tracks project greenhouse gas emissions and spearheads emission reduction pilot programs on-site.
- Free
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Beyond the Surface: A Practical Guide to Exposed Wood in Interiors
ConEd Credits: 1 BOMI CPD; AIBC 1 Core; 1 IDCEC HSW-Building Code
Location: Level 2: Room 222
- Architecture
- Property Management & Building Operations
- Interior Design
- Sustainability, Carbon Management & High-Performance Buildings
- Design Concepts, Health & Wellness
Building Type: Commercial, Institutional, Mixed-Use, Residential: Multi-Unit, Residential: Single-Unit
The growing interest in exposed wood surfaces, driven by biophilic design and low-carbon materials, is challenging the design community to explore ways to deliver more wood in their spaces. The practicalities of this are not yet mainstream or widely understood. In this session, the speakers will introduce a technical handbook offering innovative, practical solutions, and best practices for exposing wood in interior spaces. This research is based on insights from more than 25 stakeholders, from owners to designers, representing a variety of building types across the province such as residential, healthcare, education, institutional, commercial, and community projects. The speakers will present key themes including design decisions that leverage the unique material characteristics of wood, methods to protect, maintain, and repair it for long-term performance, how to optimize wood use through collaboration and resource stewardship, and how to navigate building codes and regulations to unlock opportunities.
Speakers
Dave Fell Director, Research & Analysis, Forestry Innovation Investment Ltd.
David has worked in the field of sustainable building products for the past 25 years researching novel materials, building systems, sustainability, and health in the built environment. He completed his Ph.D. at the University of British Columbia studying the effects of natural materials on stress activation in office environments. This work provided physiological evidence that the choices we make in biophilic design influence the people that occupy our buildings. He is the director of research and analysis at Forestry Innovation Investment, the B.C. government’s forest sector market development agency where he is currently coordinating research projects in Canada and internationally on the role wood in biophilic design.
Ayme Sharma Associate Principal, ZGF Architects
Ayme leads ZGF Vancouver’s Building and Project Performance Team, drawing on almost 20 years of professional experience in architecture centered on building performance and environmental stewardship. Trained as both an ecologist and an architect, Ayme brings deep expertise in embodied carbon, healthy materials, high-performance envelope design including Passive House and LEED certification. Her current research delves into linking the biogenic value of wood to sustainable forest management practices in BC to understand carbon and ecosystem benefits. Ayme has cultivated an extensive network of wood industry partners that spans the entire supply chain-from First Nations forest stewards to both small- and large-scale product fabricators. Ayme brings expertise in designing one of the first CLT elementary schools in British Columbia that promotes student health and well-being.
Kayna Merchant Facilities Architectural Manager, Asset Replacement & Improvements, VP Finance & Operations (VPFO) Portfolio, Facilities
Kayna Merchant, Facilities Architectural Manager in UBC Facilities at the University of British Columbia. Kayna is a registered architect in British Columbia. Her current role involves providing guidance and support of all major academic projects on the Point Grey Campus as well as providing design reviews of these projects. In her role, Kayna works closely with project teams and the UBC Building Operations department to ensure that projects meet the university’s architectural and operational standards. As part of this process, Kayna also provides technical feedback and reviews designs to ensure that they align with UBC’s goals and objectives.
Amalie Lambert Senior Project Manager, Facilities Development, Real Estate and Facilities Management, City of Vancouver
Amalie Lambert is an Architect AIBC, an accredited learning environment planner, and a senior project manager of civic facilities at the City of Vancouver. She holds architecture degrees from UBC and McGill and has published research on children’s health in the built environment and energy efficiency in BC elementary schools. She is currently the project manager for the Marpole Community Centre, a mass timber building targeting Passive House Certification, 40% reduced embodied carbon, and Rick Hansen certification.
- Regular
- $85