Exploration of eco-friendly construction materials, energy efficiency, and green building practices in carpentry.
About this course
This course explores eco-friendly construction materials, energy efficiency, and green building practices in carpentry. You will examine the lifecycle of building products, from extraction and manufacturing to installation and end-of-life disposal. The focus is on practical application for carpentry and construction trades professionals who need to meet evolving environmental standards.
You will learn to compare the thermal, structural, and acoustic properties of traditional materials against sustainable alternatives such as cross-laminated timber, recycled steel, and bio-based insulations. The course also covers the basics of green building certification programs and how material choices affect compliance.
Who takes this course
This is an elective course open to students in the Carpentry & Renovation Techniques program. It is also available to students in the General Carpenter (Apprenticeship) program as an in-school training module.
Credits: 3 · Hours: 45
Prerequisites
Learning outcomes
- Identify common sustainable and recycled building materials available in the Canadian market.
- Evaluate the environmental impact and lifecycle of traditional versus green building materials.
- Apply energy efficiency principles to material selection for residential and light commercial projects.
- Interpret green building certification standards relevant to carpentry and construction trades.
Evaluation
| Component | Weight (%) |
| Material analysis report | 30 |
| Mid-term practical assessment | 25 |
| Final project: sustainable specification sheet | 45 |