GREEN Materials

Energy
Waste
Design

BUILDING
Water IEQ/Site

Project Checklist

Green
Building
 Green Building Project Checklist
This checklist covers general aspects of green building that you can consult when planning
your next renovation or small building project. Tick the items off the list or use it to get some
ideas about how to build greener.

BUILDING SITE
Consider renovating an existing building before building new
Preserve ecologically valuable land
Use the site to minimize the amount of energy the building will need (e.g. passive solar design)
Consider the impact of the building project on the site and work to minimize site disturbance
Reuse topsoil for landscaping purposes
Choose landscaping locations that require less watering

MATERIALS
Research the products you plan on using. Are they sustainably sourced (e.g. FSC lumber)? Are they
ethically produced (e.g. fair trade)?
Source out materials that are durable and renewable (e.g. bamboo)
Choose non-toxic materials that won’t off-gas in your home after installation
Find locally produced materials where possible
Look for green certification labels. If none exist, ask your supplier questions to make sure the
materials have been harvested or made sustainably
Select materials that can be recycled or repurposed at the end of the material’s lifespan

DESIGN
Minimize resource use by downsizing your building plans
Design spaces that are compact, but feel bigger than they are
Create multipurpose spaces that can be flexible for future needs
Emphasize function in your building design and eliminate extra or unusable space
Plan buildings that will be durable and long lasting

ENERGY
Install high-performing insulation and lighting during renovations
Choose ENERGY STAR® appliances when replacing appliances
Incorporate green, renewable energy sources where possible
Work during daylight hours
Plan your trips to building supply stores to minimize transportation
Unplug power tools when not in use
Use hand tools for smaller jobs
Work outside when possible to reduce the need for fans
Make a plan for monitoring energy use in completed spaces
WATER
Incorporate water saving strategies such as grey water systems
Install high-efficiency water fixtures like low-flow showerheads in all renovated spaces
Minimize runoff on projects that involve excavation
Plan landscaping projects to make use of rain catchment systems
Landscape with plants that have minimal water needs (i.e. xeriscaping)
Use grey water to clean work surfaces and tools
During clean up, choose cleaning products that are friendly to aquatic ecosystems

INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

Rely on natural ventilation like windows rather than circulating indoor air
Source out mould- and moisture-resistant building materials
Choose natural flooring and finishes over synthetics (e.g. vinyl, laminates or synthetic carpet)
Select zero-VOC or natural paints

WASTE
Carefully remove any fixtures or materials being replaced so they can be donated, freecycled or
listed for sale
Purchase used materials and supplies where possible
Borrow tools and supplies instead of buying new
Find out if your neighbourhood has a tool library and become a member
Plan your cuts to materials to minimize off-cuts. Find a purpose for smaller pieces
Divert as much material as possible from landfills, either by reusing, repurposing or recycling

This checklist presents just some of the common ways to make your next building or
renovation project sustainable. There are plenty more specific approaches to green
building – visit our website to learn more.

greenbuildingcanada.ca