Buildings account for a staggering 37% of global emissions.

Image Source: UNEP - 2022 Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction

• Green Development Standards (GDS) are mandatory metrics brought together in one standard to enable municipalities to encourage environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable design.
• GDS provides clarity and transparency to the development community and municipal staff on the metrics the municipality is seeking to advance via planning and design that focuses on increasing the livability and sustainability of the community as a whole.
• GDS are integrated into the planning approvals process, where development applications are asked to meet certain criteria in the GDS. They generally apply to new private and municipally owned buildings and developments, covering Site Plans, Block Plans, and Draft Plans.

Image Source: Clean Air Partnership

Benefits of GDS:

Using municipal infrastructure more efficiently: Developments that conserve energy and water, manage stormwater runoff, and maintain green spaces reduce the burden on municipal infrastructure, defer the need for upgrades, and lower future service delivery costs.

Supporting local economic opportunities: Green development promotes innovative skills and products, expanding the local and regional green economy.

Cost savings: Green buildings can have lower operating costs, helping to address energy poverty.

Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions: GDS help lower GHG emissions from buildings and transportation by implementing energy efficiency standards and supporting low-carbon transportation options.

Improving health and wellness for residents: Compact, walkable neighborhoods with integrated green spaces enhance physical and mental health, increase physical activity, and reduce air pollution.

Enhancing the local building stock: High-quality buildings offer a more comfortable living environment, better air quality, reduced sick days, and increased productivity.

Increasing resilience: Resilient buildings enhance comfort and withstand extreme weather events more effectively. They also meet the needs of seniors, improve safety for vulnerable users, and foster economic development.

Additional Resources:

Municipal GDS Briefing Note

Towards Low Carbon Communities Toolkit