Resource efficiency is minimizing natural non-renewable resource dependence as much as possible.

Carbon emissions in aging apartment housing are some of the worst in the buildings sector. On average, the carbon emissions in a single 1960s apartment are significantly higher than those produced by a single-family home. This means that aging apartment housing is a perfect candidate for carbon footprint reduction.

Carbon emissions can be reduced in this building type through:

• Reducing natural gas dependence through energy intensity reduction: Apartment towers built between 1960-1980 tend to rely on natural gas for space and domestic water heating. Improving the efficiency of these heating plants is a simple step toward decreasing carbon emissions. This can involve more efficient equipment, right-sizing boilers, and introducing energy or heat recovery equipment.
• Reducing natural gas dependence through fuel-switching: In many parts of Canada, the electrical grid is a cleaner energy source than natural gas. In these Provinces/Territories, switching from gas-fired plants to electrical equipment can be a very effective way to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings. Tapping into district energy systems, where available, can also help to limit carbon.
• Reducing natural gas dependence through conversion to renewable sources of energy: Partially or entirely switching to renewable sources of energy is the most effective way to reduce carbon impacts -- if they can be made to suit the building systems. These may involve geothermal, solar, wind, or other sources. Suitability and availability of these sources will vary by geography and other local conditions.