Could a shift in how we build homes be the key to unclogging Metro Vancouver's landfills? A North Vancouver company, led by an Indigenous woman, is making a powerful case that the answer is a resounding yes.
The Factory Advantage: Precision and Waste Reduction
Rory Richards, CEO of the Indigenous and female-led NUQO Modular, presented at Metro Vancouver's Zero Waste Conference on Thursday, November 28, 2025. She detailed how the circular economy principles applied in modular construction can dramatically reduce the environmental footprint of building new homes.
The core of the argument lies in the methodology. Unlike traditional on-site construction, modular homes are built within a controlled factory environment. Richards states this approach can reduce construction waste by up to 90 percent. "In a factory environment, if you have additional materials and supplies, you just put it back on the shelf and you use it for another project," explained Richards. "When you're out on a construction site, there's nowhere to put anything back, so often it just gets thrown away."
Speed, Efficiency, and a More Inclusive Workforce
The benefits extend beyond waste reduction. Richards emphasizes that a modular project can be completed in half the time of a traditional build. This is because the foundational work on the building site and the construction of the modules in the factory happen simultaneously, rather than sequentially.
This factory-based model also fosters a more inclusive and safe work environment. As a Coast Salish woman from the Sechelt First Nation, Richards built her company with sustainability and climate resilience in mind, while also highlighting the work of Indigenous people and women. Over 50 percent of her team are women, a stark contrast to the national average where women make up only six percent of tradespeople.
"We have an immense shortage of people working in trades in Canada," noted Richards. She has heard from women in trades who often do not feel safe on a traditional construction site, whereas the factory offers a more corporate and secure setting.
Overcoming Challenges and Building a Local Future
The path forward for modular housing is not without its hurdles. Richards acknowledges that it can currently be more expensive than traditional methods. However, she draws a parallel to the evolution of electric vehicles, predicting that as technology advances and demand grows, prices will become more competitive.
Furthermore, NUQO Modular is committed to reducing its carbon footprint by manufacturing its housing units locally in factories within British Columbia and Alberta, avoiding the need to ship large components from overseas.
By combining faster build times, a massive reduction in landfill waste, and the creation of a more diverse and safe workforce, companies like NUQO Modular are building a compelling case for a new, more sustainable chapter in Canadian construction.
