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 | Mar 4, 2021
Biden administration overturns Trump’s federal building design mandate
Previous order promoted classical and “traditional” architecture above others.
Codes and Standards | Mar 3, 2021
Texas freeze raises questions about risks of electrifying buildings
Gas stoves helped residents cook, boil water when power went out.
Codes and Standards | Mar 2, 2021
New Seattle building code eliminates fossil fuels for most space and water heating
Also increases on-site solar photovoltaics, reduces envelope heat loss, air leakage, and interior lighting power allowances.
Codes and Standards | Feb 25, 2021
It’s not just lumber—roofing material prices are also on the rise
Lower demand for petroleum products means less asphalt production.
Codes and Standards | Feb 23, 2021
USGBC offers education on LEED Safety First pilot credits
Four courses address COVID-19.
Codes and Standards | Feb 23, 2021
ASHRAE Epidemic Task Force releases updated Building Readiness Guide
Includes flush calculations to reduce time and energy to clear contaminants between occupancy periods.
Codes and Standards | Feb 22, 2021
Preservation of Affordable Housing develops climate resilience strategy
Includes backup power for resident and staff “area of refuge”.
Codes and Standards | Feb 18, 2021
Construction industry moves toward comprehensive U.S. BIM standard
NIBS hosts roundtable to create coordinated program to advance collaboration.
Codes and Standards | Feb 17, 2021
Construction on international sports venues is ripe for corruption
Poor planning, complex contracting, a lack of accountability and high levels of collusion to blame.
Codes and Standards | Feb 16, 2021
Feds may fund removal of some urban highways
Senate bill proposes pilot program to reknit communities.
