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The Province of BC has launched the Mass Timber Action Plan and announced $1.2 million in funding for four new mass-timber housing and infrastructure projects as part of the StrongerBC Economic Plan.
Ravi Kahlon, minister of jobs, economic recovery and innovation, made the announcement with several cabinet ministers on April 7 at the University of Victoria, where a 783-bed student housing and dining project is set to open in September.
The new mass timber projects range from multi-family homes to mixed-use commercial and industrial buildings, with three located in Vancouver and one in Castlegar.
BC's already a 🌎 leader in #MassTimber🌲
Mass Timber Action Plan will grow this industry:
➡Reduce our carbon footprint
➡Create jobs in the clean economy
➡Encourage innovation in the construction sector
➡Revitalize the value-added forestry sectorhttps://t.co/Kjq5mh9tCX pic.twitter.com/iQEaC9SWDt— Ravi Kahlon (@KahlonRav) April 7, 2022
The Mass Timber Action Plan shows that BC could have as many as 10 new mass-timber manufacturers by 2035.
The plan is expected to boost the sector’s skills training through trades programs at post-secondary institutions and help fill an anticipated 4,400 additional job openings in manufacturing, construction and design.
“Mass timber is a triple-word score,” said Kahlon.
“It allows us to reduce our carbon footprint from construction, it adds value to our forestry sector and it provides new opportunities for jobs, growth and innovation in every corner of the province.”
George Chow, minister of state for trade and chair of the Mass Timber Advisory Council, said he is excited to establish BC as a leading innovator and supplier of low-carbon goods and services.
“Building a strong foundation for sustainable forestry will help us accelerate demand for mass-timber product, talent and technology,” he explained.
Mass timber is a central aspect of the StrongerBC Economic Plan and aligns with the Province’s climate goals by supporting clean growth and using renewable resources.
Katrine Conroy, minister of forests, said that growing BC’s mass timber sector is a key part of the government’s vision for the future of forestry.
“The Mass Timber Action Plan will help us transform the forestry industry and ensure workers and communities continue to benefit from secure, innovative jobs for generations to come,” she stated.
Mass timber can reduce carbon emissions by 45% and can match or exceed the structural performance of concrete and steel.
The provincial government has invested $575 million into seven different mass-timber projects at post-secondary institutions throughout BC.
The minister of advanced education and skills training, Anne Kang, said the projects showcase the versatility of mass timber.
“It’s inspiring to see students learning and living in these spaces that truly are setting the example of how to build better for all British Columbians,” she explained.
For more information, visit the press release here.