More support for wood bill

Photo: @CanningsNDP

A bill from South Okanagan-West Kootenay MP Richard Cannings that would require the federal government to consider wood for all infrastructure projects has gained support from the private sector.

On Thursday, Forest Products Association of Canada CEO Derek Nighbor addressed the Standing Committee on Natural Resources in Ottawa to express his support of Bill C-354, sometimes known as the use of wood bill.

MP Cannings has spearheaded the bill, which he believes will help bolster the Canadian wood industry, a feeling Nighbor shares. 

"In passing this bill, the government will send a clear signal that governments around the world have already recognized — that wood is a safe, durable and high-performing material that fares well against competing materials in building construction,” Nighbor said.

He also made a case that the bill will help Canada meet its targets under the Paris Climate Agreement for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

“If Canada wants to make real headway in reducing GHGs, a procurement strategy focused on reducing the carbon footprint of construction materials represents a real opportunity," Nighbor said. 

Nighbor thanked MP Cannings for bringing Bill C-354 to the house, calling it a move that will elevate Canada to the level of other countries who have embraced green building options. 

"We have already seen countries like Germany, The Netherlands, and Switzerland make moves to advance green building procurement, so there are many examples and ideas to draw from,” Nighbor said.

The bill recently passed Second Reading in the House of Commons by a vote of 217-75, and is now undergoing review by the Standing Committee on Natural Resources.