The Northgate by Doug.Tarry Limited

Independent analysis by Building Knowledge confirms that our Net Zero Energy Ready (NZE/r) homes achieve up to a 70% reduction in operational emissions compared to identical models built to Ontario Building Code (OBC) standards. While embodied carbon is approximately 8% higher than a code-built equivalent, ongoing reviews of materials such as insulation, concrete, masonry, and interior finishes are helping to identify lower-carbon alternatives to reduce overall environmental impact.

1. High Performance Standards:
All our homes are CHBA Net Zero Ready, consuming significantly less energy and producing fewer operational emissions than typical code-built homes.

2. Naturalized Landscapes:
To support carbon sequestration and protect local biodiversity, we design communities using native trees, plants, and pollinator-friendly habitats in place of traditional turf grass. These low-maintenance landscapes improve soil health, require less irrigation, and provide essential food sources and shelter for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial species. Our site planning also incorporates boulevard streets and trail systems, helping to create greener, more walkable neighborhoods that connect residents to nature while reducing environmental impact.
3. Jobsite Recycling:
Doug Tarry Homes partners with The Better Bin through the TRY Recycling to divert construction waste directly from our jobsites. Materials like wood, drywall, metal, and asphalt shingles are separated on-site and sent to processing facilities where they are repurposed—for example, old shingles are turned into paving asphalt. This system diverts up to 85% of jobsite waste from landfills, reduces embodied carbon, and supports a circular economy. The program was recognized in Canada’s 2020 ENERGY STAR® Awards, highlighting its role in building more sustainable homes.
4. Panelization:
Our in-house framing plant, Panel-It, allows us to pre-build wall panels, reducing on-site waste, transportation emissions, and inefficiencies during framing.

5. Recognition:
In the past few years we’ve received significant awards which emphasizes our commitment to sustainable practices, such as Energy Star Builder of the Year, Net Zero Builder of the Year, Impact Award – Champions of the Earth, Golden Hammer Awards – Leadership in Environmental Excellence Award, St. Thomas & Elgin Home Builders’ Association Golden Hammer Award for Leadership in Environmental Excellence, EnerQUALITY – Ontario Green Builder of the Year – Winner: Mid or High-Rise, London Home Builders’ Association Finalist for the EnerQuality Environmental Stewardship Award.

6. Low-Carbon Materials:
We use Graphenstone no-VOC, carbon-absorbing paint and opt for wood framing over steel to reduce embodied carbon.

7. Innovative Insulation:
Complying with Canadian standards, we've shifted to low-emission foam insulation—reducing emissions from 18.1 kg CO2e to just 3.51 kg CO2e per unit.

8. Embodied Carbon Analysis:
We’ve conducted detailed carbon assessments on three home models, identifying concrete, foam board insulation, and masonry as major contributors. This analysis guides our selection of lower-carbon alternatives.

9. Industry Support:
We proudly sponsored the BEAM Embodied Carbon Calculator, giving the industry free access to this vital emissions-tracking tool.

By consistently measuring, reducing, and innovating, Doug Tarry Homes is driving meaningful progress toward a low-carbon future—building homes that are better for people and the planet.