Following the American Institute of Architects (AIA) announcement of the approval of a landmark resolution to engage the architectural profession in fighting climate change, a new report reveals why architects and engineers will need to redouble their efforts to reach 2030 Commitment goals.
“The findings of this new report underscore why it is imperative that the AIA make climate change a number one priority,” said AIA EVP/Chief Executive Officer Robert Ivy, FAIA. “Architects are uniquely positioned to have a significant impact on climate action. AIA is committed to rallying the profession so that together we can make progress towards our net-zero carbon goals by 2030. It’s critical that the architecture, engineering and construction industries come together to take action on this issue today.”
The report—2030 by the Numbers: The 2018 Summary of the AIA 2030 Commitment—amalgamates predicted energy use data in buildings from the 252 firms participating in the 2030 Commitment. Data from the latest report shows participating architects, engineers and owners are making progress to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings but are falling short of program targets.
In 2018, firms were targeting a 70% reduction in predicted energy use from the original baseline. Data from the new report shows that only a 46% reduction has been achieved.
Despite this shortfall, the report also points to progress. The data shows that the projects from the 252 participating firms would reduce $3.3 billion in operating costs and eliminate 17.7 million metric tons of CO2 emissions, which is equivalent to removing 3.7 million passenger vehicles from the road for a year.
AIA and its members are working to improve these results in an effort to meet 2030 Commitment targets. Last week, the AIA announced a landmark initiative to define immediate and long-term efforts to engage the architectural profession in climate action. Currently, the Institute is establishing goals to support mitigation and adaptation using the tenets of the comprehensive and holistic COTE Top Ten framework, now known as the AIA Framework for Design Excellence. Initially, AIA will focus its efforts on designing for energy, economy, and equitable communities. Additionally, the Institute will continue to encourage participation in the AIA’s 2030 Commitment and will work to develop new programs and resources that will support architects in fighting climate change.
Complete details of the report and information on AIA’s 2030 Commitment program can be found on AIA’s website.
Related Stories
Market Data | Oct 19, 2020
5 must reads for the AEC industry today: October 19, 2020
Lower cost metros outperform pricey gateway markets and E-commerce fuels industrial's unstoppable engine.
Market Data | Oct 19, 2020
Lower-cost metros continue to outperform pricey gateway markets, Yardi Matrix reports
But year-over-year multifamily trendline remained negative at -0.3%, unchanged from July.
Market Data | Oct 16, 2020
5 must reads for the AEC industry today: October 16, 2020
Princeton's new museum and Miami's yacht-inspired luxury condos.
Market Data | Oct 15, 2020
6 must reads for the AEC industry today: October 15, 2020
Chicago's Bank of America Tower opens and altering facilities for a post-COVID-19 world.
Market Data | Oct 14, 2020
6 must reads for the AEC industry today: October 14, 2020
Thailand's new Elephant Museum and the Art Gallery of New South Wales receives an expansion.
Market Data | Oct 13, 2020
5 must reads for the AEC industry today: October 13, 2020
Miami Beach Convention Center renovation completes and guidance offered for K-12 schools to support students with asthma.
Market Data | Oct 12, 2020
Majority of contractors fear long-term business implications of COVID-19, according to Construction Executive survey
While many contractors have not yet seen drastic impacts to their business, as construction was in many areas considered an “essential” service, the long-term implications are concerning.
Market Data | Oct 12, 2020
6 must reads for the AEC industry today: October 12, 2020
4 challenges of realizing BIM's value for an owner and Florida office property is designed for a post-Covid world.
Market Data | Oct 8, 2020
6 must reads for the AEC industry today: October 8, 2020
The first rendering of the National Medal of Honor Museum is unveiled and seven urgent changes needed to fix senior living.
Market Data | Oct 7, 2020
6 must reads for the AEC industry today: October 7, 2020
Water-filled windows' effect on energy and construction begins on PGA of America HQ.