Nova Scotia Makes Wood Construction and Heating a Priority in Public Buildings

Nova Scotia recently announced that it is making wood construction and heating a priority in public buildings. All provincial departments have been directed to look for every opportunity to use mass timber, wood pellets, biomass, biofuels, and other products made with wood that is left over from sustainable harvesting and sawmilling.

Departments will prioritize wood products in new construction, renovations, and conversions from oil heat. They will also make it a priority where applicable in projects that are partially or completely funded by the government.

This focus on using wood products aligns with the Nova Scotia Loyal program, reduces reliance on imports, and enhances export markets. It will support the province’s forestry sector, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and help the province move to a low-carbon economy.

Commenting on the initiative, Nova Scotia Public Works Minster Fred Tilley said:

“Now more than ever, we want to use local products for building and heating in Nova Scotia. That’s why government is leading by example and using more wood products in our own buildings. It’s one of many steps our government is taking to make Nova Scotia more self-reliant and energy secure and to grow our economy and create jobs through innovation in our forestry sector.”