Building Principles

The following principles were developed to guide decision-making in our own eco-renovation so that we could ensure that all decisions were consistent with our environmental and social values. We encourage you to consider this list as a start to setting out your own principles prior to starting your eco-renovation.

How will we prioritize green material procurement and use?

Reduce material use
Reuse what is in the building to the greatest extent possible
Reuse materials either from other building sites
Use recycled materials when possible
Use natural materials, especially when using natural products means reductions in off gassing and improved indoor aid quality
When new materials are required, choose locally produced products
When there are no local producers, purchase from the closest supplier
Follow LEED guidelines for products
Choose materials that are made in Canada above other products
Consider full life-cycle energy costs when choosing products

How will we determine supplying companies?

As a general rule of thumb, EAC will avoid purchasing products from companies that our campaigns actively engage in. We will assess this on an ongoing basis, and anticipate that our procurement philosophy will generally limit any conflicts of this nature. We will also support companies within the community, that reduce our need to travel to obtain necessary building supplies.

At what cost do we go out of the way to support locally produced materials?

The overarching EAC mandate is to create sustainable jobs for Nova Scotians, we would go to lengths to support local if indeed it is the best choice, from a longevity and reusable point of view.

Built Environment Committee

Phone: (902) 442-0300
Fax: (902) 405-3716

The Built Environment Committee meets the second Thursday of every month at 5:30pm at the EAC. All are welcome at our monthly meeting.