Advancements in green building performance will be enabled by collecting and sharing data, says Mahesh Ramanujam, president, United States Green Building Council.
Ramanujam says that tools such as USGBC’S Arc, a digital platform that compares and shares building performance data, will be critical to raising sustainability in the built environment. This tool, released by USGBC in December, allows building teams and owners to benchmark building performance and encourages a spirit of competitiveness to raise the bar on sustainability.
His vision for the USGBC is to make the organization more global and shift the focus from buildings to cities and communities. This includes expanding certification resources abroad, localizing customer service in several countries, and localizing LEED offerings.
The development of LEED certification for cities and communities, Ramanujam says, will give business owners and employees, homeowners and renters, local officials, and community activists more of a say in advancing sustainability. Despite any slow action by governments, this will accelerate efforts to achieve green goals, he says.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Sep 19, 2017
Benchmarking regulations prompt jump in green certified properties
2016 saw a slight rise in total certified U.S. green office space.
Codes and Standards | Sep 18, 2017
Changes likely to come to federal wetlands regulations
However, states may step up regulations as feds relax them.
Codes and Standards | Sep 14, 2017
Gentrification means a new mindset for city planners
Rising rents elicit reexamination of zoning principles.
Codes and Standards | Sep 13, 2017
OSHA issues extension for compliance with crane operator certification requirements
Comments on proposed rule sought through Sept. 29.
Codes and Standards | Sep 12, 2017
Washington, D.C. is first LEED Platinum city in the world
All city government buildings are powered by renewables.
Codes and Standards | Sep 11, 2017
Natural solutions would be most effective flood resilience policies for Houston
New green infrastructure should be part of rebuild.
Codes and Standards | Sep 8, 2017
Los Angeles luxury high-rise is first U.S. apartment building to achieve WELL Multifamily certification
Hollywood Proper Residences have verified indoor air and water quality features.
Codes and Standards | Sep 7, 2017
More than half of Houston properties at high or moderate risk of flooding are not in FEMA flood zone
Properties outside of these zones are not required to carry flood insurance.
Codes and Standards | Sep 6, 2017
Seventy percent of contractors have trouble finding workers
AGC survey indicates that fewer companies may be able to bid on projects.
Codes and Standards | Sep 5, 2017
New CTBUH initiatives to investigate link between fire and façades
In wake of Grenfell tragedy, Council forms new workgroup.
