The non-profit organization EcoDistricts has launched EcoDistricts Protocol, a process-based framework and performance standard that empowers sustainable neighborhood- and district-scale urban development.
The Protocol is structured around three core areas:
- Three Imperatives: Social, economic, and environmental sustainability is at the center of neighborhood initiatives. These include Equity, Resilience, and Climate Protection.
- Six Priorities: Six rigorous goals, 49 objectives, and 94 indicators are used to scope and define a district’s sustainability agenda. These include: Place, Prosperity, Health + Wellness, Connectivity, Living Infrastructure, and Resource Restoration.
- Three Implementation Phases: A framework sets the conditions for sustained, scalable, outcomes that address the Protocol’s Imperatives and Priorities and meet the specific needs of the district over time. These phases include Formation, Roadmap, and Performance.
“The EcoDistricts Protocol represents an important tool to help city leaders think about sustainability in an integrated way and at a scale that is truly effective,” said Joel Mills, senior director, Communities by Design, The American Institute of Architects. “Using the EcoDistricts Protocol, cities can build momentum for scalable change that transforms urban sustainability and positions communities for success in the 21st century.”
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jan 25, 2016
Dept. of Energy releases decision guides for plug and process loads
Plug and process loads consume about 30% of the primary energy in U.S. commercial buildings today.
Codes and Standards | Jan 22, 2016
ConsensusDocs releases new multi-party IPD agreement and joining agreement
The documents serve as a comprehensive revision of previous IPD agreement
Codes and Standards | Jan 22, 2016
State Savings Calculator analyzes savings associated with energy codes
The calculator breaks down the cost-effectiveness of energy codes on a state-by-state basis.
Codes and Standards | Jan 22, 2016
Metal Roofing Seaming Guide published by Metal Construction Association
The free document is specifically tailored for metal roof installation.
Codes and Standards | Jan 22, 2016
Treasury Dept. will start crackdown on illicit money in luxury real estate
The move is expected to impact high-end condo development.
Resiliency | Jan 13, 2016
LEED credits on resiliency expected to influence future of building design
Post-disaster survivability is a key goal.
Codes and Standards | Jan 12, 2016
Batteries are the next step in raising sustainability standards
Battery technology will reduce electricity costs and promote a more stable, flexible grid.
Codes and Standards | Jan 4, 2016
Denver broadens its use of design reviews as construction booms
Support strong, but some wary of giving more say to review boards.
Codes and Standards | Dec 23, 2015
International Code Council approves updates based on NIST study of Joplin, Mo. tornado
Applies to schools and other high occupancy buildings.
Codes and Standards | Dec 21, 2015
Changing building codes to protect against mass shootings at odds with other safety measures
Fire and other emergencies require getting people out quickly, not locking down sections.