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as it is heated in a kiln to almost 1,500 degrees
Celsius. That searing heat is generated by burning
coal or other fossil fuels that create additional
greenhouse gases. Steel-beam components also
have a heavy carbon footprint.
“In fact, by its very nature, wood has the capacity
to store thousands of tonnes of carbon in its
sustainably harvested mass-timber form. It reduces
wastage, air pollution and costs associated with
construction, and contributes to a healthier indoor
environment,” says Dr. Stephenson. “Another
distinct advantage is the rate of construction,
which is quicker than conventional methods. Our
contractor, EllisDon, was able to erect and top off
our six-storey building in just 100 days because
the 1,057 wooden structural components were
manufactured offsite and hoisted into place. The
components are predominantly “Glulam” columns
and beams made of wood strips laminated
lengthwise, and floor slabs are made of cross-
laminated timber for strength. The timber is FSC-
certified black spruce from northern Quebec, which
was cross-laminated and glue-laminated in a plant
in Chibougamau, Quebec.”
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
carbon dioxide to be released into the atmosphere. Centennial College’s commitment to environmental
Concrete production is the leading industrial cause stewardship is ongoing and stronger than ever,
of carbon pollution, responsible for eight per cent of according to Dr. Stephenson. “We are very much
global emissions. The key raw material for Portland a part of the ‘Decade of Action’ and will continue
cement is limestone, which releases carbon dioxide to build upon our strengths—including water and
JULY 2022 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA 49
