About Building Emissions Performance Standards (BEPS)
Building Emissions Performance Standards (BEPS) are local bylaws that set mandatory emissions limits for existing large buildings. These standards become stricter over time, requiring building owners to improve performance and reduce carbon pollution.
Why Toronto Needs BEPS
Buildings are Toronto's largest source of greenhouse gas emissions (nearly 60%). While new construction has standards, existing buildings do not. BEPS is a critical tool to meet the city's 2040 net-zero targets. A 2025 poll showed strong public support, with 84% of Torontonians in favor of these standards.
Key Benefits
Implementing BEPS offers several benefits:
- Job Creation: Creates demand for local green jobs in retrofitting (estimated 7,000 full-time jobs).
- Health and Safety: Makes buildings healthier and more resilient to extreme weather.
- Cost Savings: Potential utility cost savings for owners and tenants.
- Building Value: Incentivizes upgrades, increasing asset value.
- Global Competitiveness: Aligns Toronto with other global cities like New York, Boston, and Vancouver.
Toronto's Policy & Next Steps: Toronto's BEPS will cover large commercial and multi-unit residential buildings (with some exemptions like single-family homes). Support is available through financing programs.
After an unexpected pause in late 2025, advocacy efforts led to the Infrastructure and Environment Committee voting to restore BEPS to the climate action plan. City staff are now directed to report back to Council in 2027 with an implementation plan, ensuring the policy moves forward.