Charles Marshall, DIALOG Partner and engineer, spoke with UrbanToronto as part of their Explainer series, to look at how increased performance standards are driving changes to building design.

Toronto Green Standard (TGS) – the program that sets environmental performance standards for new buildings – will implement Version 4 as of May 1st, 2022. The TGS is a critical component of the City’s commitment to achieve zero emissions from new buildings by 2028 and reduce community-wide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to net zero by 2040.

Compared to Version 3, Version 4 requires developers to ensure new buildings have lower carbon emissions and consume less energy, while adding more green infrastructure and EV parking spots, as well as promoting native plant species.

Marshall, who has led sustainable design for some of DIALOG’s biggest projects including the 25-55 St Clair Avenue East Building Rehabilitation and the Bill Fisch Forest Stewardship and Education Centre, outlines how Version 4 will create further impetus for designers and builders alike to combat climate change.

“In Version 4, the maximum energy, thermal and GHG (carbon) intensity requirements start to really shift/drive design decisions and make a difference, which is why it is top of mind for our clients and our peers in the industry right now,” says Marshall. “Generally, Torontonians and designers acknowledge the urgency of the climate crisis and the need to take action.”

The new measures are intended to encourage Ontario’s design and construction industries to innovate. “We’re ready to design better buildings, using early-stage energy modelling to inform the process, and employing high performance enclosure and glazing systems.”

Head to UrbanToronto for the full interview.