At Sheppard Property Development, we are committed to sustainability
We are dedicated to creating a greener, more sustainable future through Sustainable Development.
Sustainable Development in real estate means building responsibly
It refers to the practice of designing, constructing, and operating buildings and infrastructure in ways that are environmentally responsible, economically viable, and socially equitable. This approach seeks to minimize negative environmental impacts, reduce resource consumption, and create healthy, efficient, and productive environments for people to live and work.
Environmental Sustainability
Net Zero Construction
Implementing energy-efficient systems, appliances, and building designs to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
Water Conservation
Utilizing water-saving fixtures, rainwater harvesting, and efficient irrigation systems to minimize water use.
Materials and Resources
Using sustainable, recycled, and locally sourced materials to reduce the environmental impact of construction.
Waste Reduction
Implementing waste management strategies to reduce, reuse, and recycle construction and operational waste.
Economic Sustainability
- Cost Efficiency: Reducing operating costs through energy and water savings and enhancing the building’s value through sustainable practices.
- Long-term Viability: Designing buildings that are durable, adaptable, and resilient to changes in the environment and market demands.
- Return on Investment: Demonstrating that sustainable buildings can achieve higher occupancy rates, rental premiums, and lower turnover, resulting in better financial performance.
- Sustainable Urban Planning: Integrating missing middle developments, public transportation, and pedestrian-friendly designs to reduce reliance on cars and promote sustainable living.
Social Sustainability
- Health and Well-being: Creating indoor environments with good air quality, natural light, and comfortable temperatures to promote the health and well-being of occupants.
- Community Engagement: Involving local communities in the planning and development process to ensure that projects meet their needs and contribute positively to the area.
- Accessibility and Inclusivity: Designing spaces that are accessible to all individuals, regardless of their physical abilities.
- Quality of Life: Enhancing the quality of life for residents and users through amenities, green spaces, and sustainable urban planning.
Examples of Sustainable Practices in Real Estate
- Solar Panels and Renewable Energy: Incorporating renewable energy sources to reduce dependency on fossil fuels.
- Smart Building Technologies: Utilizing advanced technologies for energy management, lighting, heating, and cooling to optimize resource use.
- Sustainable Urban Planning: Integrating mixed-use developments, public transportation, and pedestrian-friendly designs reduces reliance on cars and promotes sustainable living.
- Missing Middle Developments: Low rise multiunit properties are the most economically efficient to build. By utilizing existing infrastructure and reducing urban sprawl, missing middle development promotes sustainable growth and efficient land use.
Sustainable Development in real estate is essential for reducing the environmental footprint of the built environment, creating healthier spaces for occupants, and ensuring the economic viability of buildings over the long term. By adopting sustainable practices, the real estate industry can contribute significantly to global sustainability goals.
Sustainable Development Questions
Net Zero refers to buildings that produce as much energy as they consume. This is achieved through a combination of energy-efficient design, advanced insulation, high-performance windows, renewable energy sources like solar panels, high efficiency HVAC systems, and smart energy management systems.
Net Zero buildings significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, combat climate change, and offer substantial savings on energy costs. They provide healthier living environments and are designed to meet future energy standards, making them a sound long-term investment.
Missing middle development refers to a range of multi-unit or clustered housing types that are compatible in scale with single-family homes and help fill the gap between single-family homes and high-rise apartments. This type of development is aimed at addressing the housing affordability and diversity crisis in many urban areas. Incorporating missing middle development into urban planning and zoning policies can significantly impact the affordability, sustainability, and livability of cities. At Sheppard Property Development, we are committed to promoting missing middle housing as part of our sustainable property development projects in Ottawa, ensuring diverse and resilient communities for the future.
Our developments support sustainable living through energy-efficient designs, use of renewable energy sources, and incorporation of sustainable materials. We also integrate smart technology to optimize energy use and reduce environmental impact.
Yes, many of our Net Zero developments include affordable housing units. These units are designed to be financially accessible while maintaining high standards of sustainability and quality. Many of our projects are funded with CMHC insured mortgages, making renting a Net Zero home more attainable.