FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
OTTAWA, June 5, 2025 – Today, on World Environment Day, the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) proudly launches its Climate Action Plan (CAP) – A Framework for Engagement and Enablement. The CAP sets a bold course for the architectural community, providing a dynamic roadmap to accelerate the transition toward low-carbon, resilient, and regenerative development and design across Canada.
Globally, buildings and construction account for about 37% of all carbon emissions, according to the United Nations Environment Programme (2022).
“For over a century, the RAIC has championed design excellence in service of the public good. Today, that commitment extends to meeting one of the greatest challenges of our time: the climate and biodiversity crises,” said Jonathan Bisson, FIRAC, President of the RAIC. "The Climate Action Plan reflects our responsibility to future generations and our unwavering dedication to leadership in climate-responsive architecture."
To achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement and maintain a 1.5-2°C pathway, by 2030, we must halve emissions by ensuring new buildings are net-zero energy ready and existing buildings are deeply decarbonized (including at least a 40% reduction in embodied carbon). By 2050, we must reach a net zero carbon-built environment, including embodied carbon, which will require a focus on reusing and recycling.
The CAP is organized around four key priorities:
Accelerating the transformation of practice
Advocating boldly to create pathways for change
Mobilizing partnerships and collaborative action
Investing in education and research
Developed through two years of nationwide engagement with over 800 contributors—including Indigenous Knowledge Holders, allied professionals, students, and community members—the CAP calls on architects to embed reconciliation, social justice, and holistic health into their climate action efforts.
“The urgency of the climate crisis demands bold, collective action,” said Mike Brennan, Chief Executive Officer of the RAIC. “The Climate Action Plan is both a call to action and a tool for transformation."
Co-Chairs of the RAIC’s CAP Steering Committee, Mona Lemoine and Joanne Perdue, emphasized, "By accelerating individual and collective action, we can shape a regenerative future. Together, we will lead the transition to design practices that restore ecosystems, foster resilience, and prioritize health and well-being."
The RAIC invites architects, policymakers, allied industries, and the public to explore the Climate Action Plan, participate in its implementation, and help drive the change needed for a thriving future.
Learn more and download the Climate Action Plan: https://raic.org/climate-action
Media Contact: RAIC Communications communications@raic.org