Vancouver green building centre gets federal government funding boost

source: Business in Vancouver March 18-24, 2008; issue 960

Real estate roundup: Peter Mitham

Vancouver green building centre gets federal government funding boost

There’s some green backing for a Vancouver initiative backing green buildings.

The federal government is putting $180,000 behind the Light House Sustainable Building Centre on Granville Island.

Delivered over two years, the funding will support the delivery of several programs the two-year-old centre offers consumers and businesses that aim to reduce buildings’ environmental impact. During the past two years, the centre’s annual budget has increased to $700,000 from $400,000 in its pilot year.

In addition to funding from the federal and provincial governments, Light House receives revenue from fees it charges clients for a host of consulting services.

The new funding will further its efforts to become a one-stop shop for information on sustainable practices for both the construction sector and consumers, said Helen Goodland, executive director of Light House.

A survey last fall for TD Canada Trust found that 75% of B.C. residents who are homeowners or who are considering buying a home said they would be willing to pay a premium for environment friendly features, while 39% of survey respondents said the environment is an important consideration when they’re drafting renovation plans. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. expects B.C. to see approximately $7 billion in home renovations this year.