CONCRETE

Building Strong BC Communities

A Strong Foundation

Whether choosing a building material or just marveling about the wonders of our world, concrete is a solid place to start.

From the places we live, work or play, to the sidewalks, bridges and roads that link them together, concrete connects us and builds our communities.

It also builds livelihoods—directly and indirectly employing thousands of people across the province.

Every BC community over 5000 people has a concrete plant, creating local jobs and supporting local economies.

Complex Challenges…

CONCRETE SOLUTIONS

This year, the provincial government changed the BC Building Code, increasing height restrictions for mass timber buildings from six to twelve stories.
While praised as a more sustainable direction for construction, we believe it’s a partial answer to complex environmental and economic challenges in our province.

A better solution includes concrete… here’s why:

Concrete is Safe

Concrete doesn’t burn, rust or rot.

To ensure safety, it must remain at the core of tall building design.

Concrete is Sustainable

Concrete is energy efficient.

Improving energy efficiency of buildings is critical to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving BC’s carbon reduction targets. Concrete can dramatically improve the energy efficiency of buildings.

Concrete is
Cost-Effective

Concrete saves you money!

Up-front costs of building with concrete are competitive with other building materials like wood—plus it’s more durable.
When you factor in maintenance, repairs and insurance
it’s also more cost-effective for
developers, stratas and owners in the long term.

It’s no wonder that concrete is the most widely used construction material in the world.

Its strength and versatility make it ideal for safe, sustainable & cost-effective buildings and infrastructure.

 

Our World is Concrete

Help Keep BC’s Concrete Industry Strong!

Here’s how…

Invest Locally

Supporting local concrete businesses and suppliers keeps and creates local jobs, supports local economies and reduces transportation costs and emissions.

We all benefit from a thriving local concrete industry.

Level the Playing Field

Wood and concrete are both excellent building materials, among others.

Governments must foster a fair competitive environment that doesn’t favour one material over another. Let’s allow builders and developers to choose the best material for the job.

Challenge Current Carbon Accounting Standards

Recent independent research has uncovered serious gaps in how carbon emissions from building materials are measured.

We need to ensure government, policy makers, builders and architects are making evidence-based decisions that get carbon accounting right.

Think Concrete for Sustainable Design

When used effectively in designs, concrete is a highly effective material for energy efficient buildings.