Data from the International Energy Agency suggests that the construction industry is responsible for up to 40% of global C02 emissions.
But buildings constructed to the highest standard of sustainability can be part of the solution, not the problem, according to one Alberta startup that is aiming to turn the table.
ZS2 Technologies, based in Calgary, believes buildings should be sustainable—as well as safe, resilient, and economical.
“From day one, ZS2 Technologies has been committed to developing and commercializing construction technologies that are better for people and the planet,” the startup states online.
How does the company aim to achieve this? By combining innovation and science, the team at ZS2 has developed special building materials that power products like TechBoard and TechPanel.
The firm’s R&D team created a proprietary Magnesium Oxysulfate cement formula used to building solutions. Magnesium has been used in building materials for thousands of years, including parts of the Great Wall of China.
For example, TechBoard is the most advanced sheathing product on the market, the company has claimed, citing the material’s remarkable resistance to both water and fire. It’s strong and insulated yet flexible and light.
ZS2 isn’t just innovating cement, either. It’s also tackling other common building materials. The company is currently working on three future products: TechWall, a non-combustible wall insulation system; TechTile, a low-carbon cement tile; and TechStone, which mimics masonry for facades and cladding.
ZS2 was founded in 2020 by Scott Jenkins, Doug Brown, and Kristin Ouwejan. The firm was named to the Foresight 50 the following year. In 2023, the startup received funding from the federal government.
Last year, ZS2 was among the winners of TELUS’ fifth #StandWithOwners contest. The company also recently partnered with modular steel home builder SEED Homes.