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The federal government announced plans to launch a $1.5-billion Rental Protection Fund to help non-profit organizations acquire more rental units and ensure they remain affordable for Canadians. The new fund promises to provide $1 billion in loans and $470 million in contributions to non-profits and other partners as a way to facilitate long-term affordable rents….

Buildings in the ’70s were not energy efficient. Facility managers showed the country how to reduce energy use and save money   “Building Operating Management’s” roots date back to the 1950s. However, until 1970, the publication was known by other names: “Better Maintenance,” “Better Building Maintenance,” and “Building Maintenance and Modernization.” To celebrate the magazine’s…

Facility managers can safely gather essential data on facility conditions without ladders or lifts Drones have changed the way many maintenance and engineering managers think about facility inspections. Prior to drones’ arrival more than a decade ago, managers looking to gather information on the condition of roofs, facades, windows and doors resorted to sending technicians…

As an integral part of the revitalization of Seattle’s Denny regrade neighborhood, Graphite projects combine to provide a model of a sustainable urban community that exemplifies principles of resource conversation, transportation synergies, lifestyle benefits, and long-term flexibility. Graphite has played a pivotal role in developing six buildings within a four-block area that serve the neighborhood…

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has opened the first public comment period for its draft Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design version 5 (LEED v5), the latest iteration of the globally recognized green building certification. Although the update initially focused on operations and maintenance of existing buildings, it has since been expanded to include…

Amidst a nationwide effort to increase whole-facility energy efficiency, mechanical systems rank high among the most critical areas of focus. Space heating and domestic hot water production account for approximately 42% of energy use in the United States. For many existing facilities served by a hydronic system, the straightest path toward a smaller carbon footprint…