The Business Case for Decarbonizing Commercial Buildings

Developing a business case for decarbonizing commercial buildings takes a deep understanding of the interplay between emissions reduction measures (like electrification and material optimization) and energy conservation measures. It's a balancing act. Too much of one and not enough of the other can erode the business case or the decarbonization potential. Jawl Properties, a leading developer, owner and manager of premium commercial real estate in Victoria, has mastered the balancing act. Since 2007, they have been applying their climate-friendly business sense to every building in their portfolio and are well on their way to achieving a 60% reduction in their emissions (per square foot) by 2030.

On Thursday, April 24, join Karen Jawl, Director of Jawl Properties, and green building experts from the Zero Emissions Innovation Centre (ZEIC), in Victoria, for a discussion on the financial and practical realities of decarbonizing commercial buildings. Hear from the panelists about timely topics like financial incentives, embodied carbon, and energy retrofits, along with insights on balancing energy conservation and emissions reduction measures to make sustainability a strong business case. This late afternoon event will also provide an opportunity to network with other industry professionals before and after the panel discussion.

Spaces are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot. Tickets include canapes and beverages.

Panelists:

• Karen Jawl, Jawl Properties

Karen Jawl is the Director of Jawl Properties Ltd, an integrated developer, owner and manager of premium commercial and residential real estate in Victoria, BC. In addition to leading property management for Victoria’s largest portfolio of commercial properties, Karen has overseen several multifamily residential real estate developments.

• Mariko Michasiw, Building to Electrification Coalition (B2E)

Mariko Michasiw is the Program Manager for B2E. She is a specialist in reducing emissions from building operations through electrification of space heating and hot water mechanical systems.

• Natalie Douglas, Zero Emissions Building Exchange (ZEBx)

Natalie Douglas is the ZEBx Program Manager and a Registered Professional Planner specializing in developing educational content that brings together different decarbonization tactics into a cohesive strategy – keeping cost-effectiveness, resilience, and whole-life carbon top of mind.

• Stephanie Dalo, Carbon Leadership Forum of BC (CLF)

Stephanie Dalo is the Program Manager for Carbon Leadership Forum BC (CLF BC), and a licensed Professional Engineer in BC with expertise in reducing embodied carbon. Stephanie advocates for circular design & construction strategies that keep products, components, and materials at their highest utility and value at all times.