Canada’s National Building Codes Will Encompass Effects Of Climate Change

Canada will use forecasted data taking into account the impacts of climate change in its new national building codes. The National Research Council (NRC), which devises model codes for building, energy, plumbing and fire, has previously based code writing on historical data. The council now wants to incorporate the latest research on the effects of climate change and take into account innovation and new products that can help construct buildings better able to adapt to changing conditions.

In recent years, Canada has experienced more extreme weather including more heavy rain, floods, high winds, snow, ice, and temperature swings. The model codes provide a common blueprint for local building codes that are adopted into law by provinces and municipalities.

New additions to the NRC’s model codes incorporating climate change forecasts are expected within the next four years.

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