Impact

Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles are central to how we operate and shape the future of real estate development and homebuilding. Our goal is to foster a culture built on care, passion, and integrity, while driving responsible sustainability, innovation, and positive impact.

Environmental

Our commitment to environmental sustainability is woven into the fabric of everything we do. We are dedicated to reducing our carbon footprint and enhancing the efficiency of our operations. By embracing innovative construction methods and materials, we strive to create healthier, more sustainable living spaces. Our collaborative efforts with industry leaders and experts reflect our ambition to push the boundaries of eco-friendly homebuilding. Additionally, we are investing in initiatives that promote food security and regenerative agriculture, reinforcing our pledge to a greener future. Through these comprehensive efforts, we aim to lead by example in the pursuit of environmental stewardship.

Regenerative Farm Initiative

As a learning initiative for food security, we have committed resources to establish a regenerative farm in Canfield, ON. This project is led by a 20-year veteran in organic farming, ensuring expert guidance and sustainable practices. The farm will serve as a model for regenerative agriculture, promoting food security and environmental stewardship within our communities.

ERTH360 Discovery Home Concept

We have completed the ERTH360 Discovery Home concept, a pilot project designed to explore the use of cleaner and more environmentally friendly building materials. This healthier home initiative aims to understand the construction implications and benefits of sustainable materials, paving the way for more eco-friendly housing solutions.

Net Zero Energy Home Charette

For our first Net Zero Home, we organized an Integrated Design Process charette, with the ambitious goal of reducing carbon emissions by at least 30% compared to a code-built home. At Empire, we are working towards creating homes that are not only energy-efficient but also significantly lower in carbon emissions.

Social

Social responsibility is a cornerstone of our values. We are dedicated to making meaningful contributions to our communities and fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. Our significant financial support for community initiatives, commitment to diversity and inclusion, and high levels of employee engagement reflect our dedication to creating a positive impact. Through these efforts, we aim to build a supportive and inclusive environment both within our organization and in the communities we serve.

Community Giving

In 2023 alone, we’ve invested $1M+ in community initiatives, in addition to Division-level contributions. This financial commitment enhances local education, healthcare, and social services, reinforcing our role as a responsible corporate citizen and strengthening the communities where we build, which in turn supports long-term business sustainability.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Our 40% representation of women demonstrates our strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. By fostering equality and supporting the professional development of every employee, we cultivate a dynamic and innovative atmosphere. This diversity fuels innovation and creativity in our homebuilding processes, establishing us as a forward-thinking company that values varied perspectives, ultimately leading to improved business results and a competitive advantage in the market.

Employee Engagement

Our employee engagement score of 89% reflects a highly motivated and connected workforce. High engagement levels are indicative of a productive and satisfied team, which translates into higher quality results and customer service. This strong internal culture supports our reputation and reliability, reflecting a stable and growing company.

Governance

Strong governance is fundamental to our operations. We prioritize comprehensive stakeholder engagement to identify and manage key company risks effectively. Our commitment to sustainability and innovation is further reinforced by the appointment of a dedicated Vice President to embed these principles across our business. Through these governance practices, we ensure robust risk management and a forward-thinking approach to our corporate responsibilities.

Where people live becomes part of their identity — it’s where they make memories, connect with family and friends, and support their health and wellbeing. We take pride in being exemplary stewards of the land we develop, enhancing both the natural environment and the social fabric of the neighbourhoods where we build.

Andrew Guizzetti

Co-CEO, Willowdale Asset Management