The American Institute of Architects outlines an initial path forward for the organization and profession in a new declaration, “Where We Stand: Climate Action.”
“Climate change requires a holistic approach, addressing the interdependencies among people, buildings, infrastructure, and the environment,” said AIA 2019 President William Bates, FAIA, in a news release. “Our training allows us to look for solutions and ways to mitigate climate change comprehensively and creatively, which we do every day.”
The AIA is calling on all architects to support “humanity’s collective call to climate action through an unrelenting commitment to sustainable and resilient design.” The statement provides actionable steps to prioritize and support “exponentially decelerating the production of greenhouse gasses and to make progress towards achieving net-zero emissions in the building sector by 2050.”
The organization will work to encourage passive design techniques, employ energy efficiency measures, adapt existing buildings, and specify low-impact building materials. “It is our responsibility to make the business and financial case to clients to help them better understand and support the need to integrate renewable energy sources into all buildings, making them more sustainable, resilient, and economical,” the release says.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jan 7, 2021
Workers on some of Virginia’s major construction projects sue subcontractors for wage theft
Projects include new General Assembly Building, outpatient facility at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Codes and Standards | Jan 5, 2021
EPA finalizes first major update to Lead and Copper rule
Will accelerate pace of lead service line replacement.
Codes and Standards | Jan 5, 2021
Flood risk for affordable housing expected to triple by 2050
Some communities will have 90% of their affordable housing at risk.
Codes and Standards | Jan 4, 2021
Ranks of remote workers expected to double in five years
Nearly 23% of employees will work from outside of offices.
Codes and Standards | Dec 28, 2020
CSI and ASTM standards can now be connected through a central location
CROSSWALK web service accesses standards specific to projects from feasibility to turnover.
Codes and Standards | Dec 28, 2020
Dept. of Energy offers Better Buildings Field Validation Results Hub
One-stop-shop for information associated with technology validations in buildings.
Codes and Standards | Dec 28, 2020
2021 Defense Authorization Act includes mass timber provision
Directs defense, agriculture secretaries to review potential for wood frame construction on defense building projects.
Codes and Standards | Dec 28, 2020
New York City proposal would require rainwater detention tanks for new development
Rule would apply to projects on lots sized 20,000 sf or larger.
Codes and Standards | Dec 17, 2020
Energy efficiency as a service gaining ground as financing approach for adopting innovations
Building owners can invest in new technology with no upfront cost.
Codes and Standards | Dec 16, 2020
Resources available to address Legionella threat
Buildings reopened after extended pandemic closure are at risk.
