The Concrete Reality of Environmental Sustainability: Appreciating the Risks of Non-Compliance with Environmental Laws and the Advantages of Going Green

February 23, 2024 3:30pm

Matthew Gardner
Partner | Environmental Law Specialist, Certified by The Law Society of Ontario
Willms & Shier Environmental Lawyers LLP

Lauren O’Malley, ENV SP
Sustainability Specialist
Aecon Group Inc.

ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) is more than just a buzzword, particularly the E: there are numerous environmental laws and regulations that impact the construction industry. Failing to comply with these laws could result in penalties. Conversely, companies that exceed basis mandates position themselves as industry leaders, reaping numerous benefits, including government funding. In this session, topics of discussion include:

  • Knowing the standards to follow, what to measure and which metrics to compile when developing and implementing environmental goals
  • Learning the environmental statutes that apply to construction, including the Excess Soil Regulation, and the penalties of non-compliance
    • Understanding the proposed amendments to Ontario’s Excess Soil Regulation
    • Considering the Supply Chain due diligence law proposed by the EU and whether it applies to your business partners
  • Discovering the tax incentives, credits, and loans available to environmentally friendly construction companies and projects