Panelists

Chris Phillips, Terrell Wong, Greg Labbé, Bruce March, Bettina Hoar

This engaging panel discussion will present stories about building designs, new builds, renovations and provide candid lessons learned.  Based on the hugely popular Boots on the Ground professional talks that take place throughout Canada, hear from some of the founding members - a builder, two designers, an energy evaluator, and a client - about lessons learned when considering a green renovation and top tips for getting great outcomes for your green renovation.

Join us after for a cocktail reception (cash bar) to meet and mingle with BOG members!

Chris Magwood's talk, "Your Home as a Climate Change Solution," reveals the pivotal role our homes play in combating climate change. Chris will explore how integrating energy efficiency, reducing embodied carbon, and prioritizing material health can transform buildings from environmental burdens into beacons of sustainability. By examining innovative examples of sustainable buildings, Magwood illustrates practical strategies for homeowners and builders alike to make positive environmental impacts. This engaging presentation not only educates on the principles of sustainable construction but also inspires action by demonstrating how our homes can actively contribute to the health of our planet.

Chris Magwood, Builders for Climate Action

Chris is a leading advocate for sustainable building, focusing on turning buildings into solutions for climate change. Joining the Rocky Mountain Institute's Embodied Carbon team in 2022, he leads projects like HomebuildersCAN and the development of standards for measuring buildings' carbon footprints. As a co-founder of Builders for Climate Action in 2019, Magwood developed the BEAM carbon estimator for low-rise construction and authored impactful studies on embodied carbon. His contributions extend to writing seven books on sustainable building, with his latest, "Building Beyond Zero," advocating for carbon-smart architecture. Magwood's work emphasizes sustainable, equitable building practices, marking him as a pivotal figure in the fight against climate change.

Angelina Sampieri, The Healthy Abode

Many people may be surprised to know that many homes in the GTA built before 1980 likely contain asbestos-containing materials, lead paint, mercury, benzene, and silica. Testing your home for these hazards before renovation or demolition is crucial for homeowner and worker safety. The Healthy Abode’s presentation will clarify homeowner responsibilities, highlight common building materials that may contain these hazards, explain the designated substance survey (DSS) process, and invite questions and discussion. Join us to ensure the safety of your home and those involved in your projects. We'll provide practical tips and resources for managing these risks effectively.

Panelists

Abraham Wairisal and JP Solmes

The City of Toronto’s Net Zero by 2040 goal is one of the most ambitious targets in North America, in order to get there, we would need to retrofit over 400,000 low-rise residential buildings in Toronto. Learn more about how the City of Toronto is providing support to home and building owners as well as hear from a Toronto homeowner who succeeded in transforming his own home to net zero.

PANELISTS

Carolyn Moss, Daniel Hall, Brad Tapson and  Ana Gascon Marco

Join us for an enlightening presentation by three architects from the Net Zero Architects Network. Discover how to make your home safer, more comfortable, and resilient while reducing your climate impact. Engage with our experts as we explore critical questions:

- Do our homes contribute to climate change? What can we do about it?

- What regulations are on the horizon for our homes?

- What financial support is available to make your green renovation journey smoother?

- How can thoughtful planning simplify the process of incorporating eco-friendly upgrades into your home maintenance and renovation plans?

Bring your questions and let's pave the way to a greener future! 

Panelists

Jeremy Clarke, Rick Zytaruk, Sylvia Cook, Deirdre McGahern, Mike Manning 

Conventional construction can be made sustainable, but have you considered some of the many other ways you can build? Hear from an amazing variety of green builders who specialize in alternative ways to build sustainably, including pre-fab panels, rammed earth, straw bale, double stud, and a flex building!  Which will be your favourite?

Panelists

Mick Paterson, Monica Polo, Sarah Grant and Brad Tapson

No matter what you're building (home, laneway, reno, addition, etc.) or how you're building it (conventional, natural, etc), there's ALWAYS room for building it better.  This brilliant panel will help you understand how you can take your project to the next level of sustainability - no matter where you’re starting off!  Lots of great food for thought and time for audience questions.