TIME: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Description
As mass timber construction continues to gain momentum across North America and globally, architects, engineers, and project teams are increasingly looking to timber as a low-carbon alternative to concrete and steel. This presentation explores the key market, policy, technological, and sustainability drivers accelerating mass timber adoption, while examining the challenges that must be addressed for continued growth.
Participants will gain insight into advanced mass timber systems, including hybrid structures, modular construction, digital fabrication, and evolving fire-safety approaches that are enabling larger and more complex timber buildings. Through real-world case studies, the session highlights how innovation is improving construction efficiency, reducing embodied carbon, and supporting circular economy principles.
A central focus of the presentation is the importance of responsible sourcing. As demand for mass timber increases, ensuring that forest products come from sustainably managed forests is critical to maintaining biodiversity, protecting Indigenous rights, and preserving long-term forest resilience. The session examines the role of Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) certification in providing independent verification of responsible forest management and supply chain transparency.
Attendees will also learn how FSC-certified mass timber can support project sustainability objectives and contribute to green building frameworks such as LEED, WELL, BOMA BEST, Fitwel, and ESG reporting initiatives. Practical guidance will be provided on specifying, procuring, and documenting FSC-certified materials, helping design professionals integrate sustainable sourcing requirements into their projects.
By connecting sustainable forestry, building performance, and emerging construction technologies, this session offers a comprehensive roadmap for advancing the responsible adoption of mass timber in the built environment.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the latest European trends and advancements in digital fabrication, modular construction, and the increasing impact of parametric design on mass timber innovation.
- Explore advanced engineered timber systems, including hybrid structures, highlighting how evolving fire safety and building code requirements are accelerating the adoption of these solutions.
- Understand why FSC is the most credible sustainable forest management solution.
- Review how FSC certification aligns with major green building verification systems such as LEED, WELL, and BREEAM, and how it drives improved building and material performance through advanced engineering and sustainability measures.
Presenters:
Monika Patel, President & CEO, FSC Canada
Monika Patel is the President and CEO of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Canada. With over 16 years of experience in sustainability and communications, Monika is a dynamic leader dedicated to promoting responsible forest management. In her role, she spearheads strategic initiatives, oversees comprehensive communication strategies, and fosters strong relationships with stakeholders across North America and internationally. Monika’s innovative approach and commitment to sustainability have earned her recognition, including being named one of Canadian Forest Industries’ Top 10 under 40 in 2022.
Jeff Welch, Market Development Manager, FSC Canada
Jeff Welch joined FSC Canada in 2023 as Market Development Manager. Jeff brings a diverse and extensive background in sales and management across several industries, including corrugated packaging, architectural panels and films, and cabinet manufacturing. At FSC Canada, he works collaboratively with industry leaders, businesses, and stakeholders to educate and grow demand for FSC certified forest products, advancing the organization’s mission to promote environmentally responsible, socially beneficial, and economically sustainable forest management.
Pricing:
Licensed OAA Members: $42.50 + HST
OAA Interns and Students: $32.50 + HST
Non-Members: $63.00 + HST
NOTE:
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e: OAAContinuingEducation@oaa.on.ca
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